The New York Mets’ high-risk investment in Luis Robert Jr. may conclude sooner than anticipated, contingent on another team’s willingness to absorb his contract.
Rober was placed on waivers by the Mets on Saturday, as reported by The Post’s Joel Sherman, providing potential claiming teams 48 hours to secure his rights and remain eligible for postseason roster eligibility. The outfielder participated in the Mets’ 6-2 victory over the Astros at Citi Field, pinch-hitting in the eighth inning, while still eligible to play during the waiver process.
game against the Braves at Truist Park. Getty Images
A successful claim would require a team to assume approximately $3 million of his remaining 2026 salary, plus a $2 million buyout.
If no contender accepts the financial burden—likely given Robert’s inconsistent performance—a waiver claim would lapse, returning him to the Mets’ roster and reinforcing their underwhelming season narrative.
The Mets acquired Robert from the Chicago White Sox in January, envisioning a postseason boost, but his season was marred by injury and poor production. He missed over two months with a lumbar spine herniation, during which he batted .224 with a .656 OPS. Upon his July 20 return, his numbers briefly worsened to as low as .189 average and .597 OPS. Though he improved to .311 with a .994 OPS in 19 games since August 5, his overall output remained just 10 homers and 23 RBI.
Robert’s role has further diminished as the Mets rely on promising outfield prospects Carson Benge and A.J. Ewing, who represent the franchise’s long-term plans. Additionally, Juan Soto’s return from a left calf strain eases defensive concerns heading into 2027.
Though Robert carries a $20 million club option for 2027, either the Mets or a claiming team would likely forfeit it via the $2 million buyout, avoiding future financial commitments.
The waiver move could alleviate the Mets’ crowded outfield logjam while generating modest savings. Without a claim, it marks another acknowledgment of their offseason miscalculation and adds to the narrative of failure for the club’s 2025 campaign.
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-(1).jpeg?w=1024&resize=1024,1024&ssl=1 "Imam-ul-Haq Ruled Out of Remainder of Lord’s Test Due to Calf Strain")
