MLB Rumors: Reds & White Sox Almost Made Huge Trade
The White Sox wanted infield prospect Edwin Arroyo, who missed last season with a shoulder injury, while the Reds pushed for salary relief on Robert’s $15 million salary for 2025.
With neither side willing to budge, talks collapsed, and Cincinnati turned to free agency, signing Austin Hays to a one-year, $5 million deal.
“They are dead for now,” Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reported. “I don't know that the Reds and White Sox are going to work it out before spring training or during spring training. But certainly, as the season progresses, who knows what might happen.”
The @whitesox price for Luis Robert Jr: 2 top prospects - but who will pay? pic.twitter.com/mDaqaV9qjA
— Foul Territory (@FoulTerritoryTV) January 30, 2025
Robert, 27, remains one of Chicago’s top trade chips despite injuries limiting him to just 100 games in 2024, where he hit .224 with 14 home runs.
The Reds viewed him as a potential difference-maker for their outfield but hesitated due to his inconsistent availability and contract, which includes club options for 2026 and 2027 at $20 million each.
The San Francisco Giants also explored a deal for Robert earlier in the offseason but couldn't agree on value.
Talks between the @Reds & @Whitesox over Luis Robert Jr. have stalled for now - but could be revived later, says @Ken_Rosenthal pic.twitter.com/rI8TALQ7iB
— Foul Territory (@FoulTerritoryTV) January 30, 2025
This situation mirrors how the White Sox handled Dylan Cease last year, holding onto him into spring training before dealing him in March.
If Robert stays healthy and performs well early in the season, Chicago could revisit trade talks with the Reds or other teams like the Giants.
In the meantime, Cincinnati will move forward with an outfield of Hays, TJ Friedl, and Jake Fraley, while the White Sox wait to see if Robert’s market improves.
Photo Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
