Despite Injury Concerns Getz Doubles Down on Luis Robert Jr. With Bold Prediction

Despite rumors that Chris Getz was looking to trade away Luis Robert Jr. this offseason, the White Sox general manager made a bold prediction about the future of his centerfielder. 

Getz joined MLB Network last week during the network’s 30 Clubs in 15 Days segment and expressed his belief that Robert is poised for an MVP-caliber season.

“Luis has gotten a ton of attention and I say that because he’s got superstar ability. For us we just gotta keep this guy on the field,” Getz said. “What he does on the defensive side, the amount of power he has, his plate discipline, if that improves, we’re looking at an All-Star type player and I wouldn’t be surprised if he garners some MVP votes.” 

The 27-year-old is a five-tool player who already has an All-Star appearance, a Gold Glove, and a Silver Slugger award on his resume. In 2023 he proved to be a dynamic force in the White Sox lineup posting a .857 OPS en route to a 12th-place finish in the AL MVP voting. He also launched a career-high 38 homers, drove in 80 RBI, and swiped 30 bags.

However, as Getz alluded to, Robert’s checkered injury history remains a concern.  It was also likely a red flag for several teams who were interested in trading for him this offseason. Last season he was out of the lineup from April 6 to June 4 with a right hip flexor strain. In 2022 he was limited to 98 games after three stints on the IL. During the 2021 season, he played just 68 games after suffering a hip flexor injury while running to first base on May 2nd against the Guardians. 

Robert told reporters in February,  that he will be adjusting his game during some of the colder months earlier in the season, due to injuries he has suffered during April and May. Some of that includes being a “smart player” and knowing the best times in the game to “push it a little bit,” Robert said. 

Aside from the injuries, Robert’s plate discipline remains a concern. Last season Robert said he was focusing on trying to attack pitches in a certain spot in the strike zone. But when an early injury took him out of the lineup, he began to press, and with little lineup protection around him it resulted in massive strikeout numbers.

Robert’s nearly 36% chase rates one of the MLB’s worst, while his 6.6 percent walk rate limited his impact on the basepaths. However, his bat speed and barrel percentage give the White Sox hope that if he can improve his chase numbers he can still be a force in the lineup.

With Opening Day approaching, the White Sox are at a crossroads. If Getz’s prediction is accurate and Robert bounces back, he could net a strong return at the trade deadline. If not, the team may have to hold onto him for another season and risk paying him the $20 million club option he is owed next year or lose him for nothing.