MLB Rumors: Astros Linked To Franchise-Altering Trade With White Sox
After a dramatic offseason that saw the Astros trade Kyle Tucker and let Alex Bregman walk in free agency, the team retooled with corner infielders Christian Walker and Isaac Paredes.
However, their outfield remains a question mark, especially with the surprising plan to move longtime second baseman Jose Altuve to left field. With uncertainty surrounding the group of Altuve, Chas McCormick, and Jake Meyers, Houston could make a move for a star-caliber player like Robert.
Pressnell proposed a four-player package that would send Robert to Houston in exchange for third baseman Zach Dezenzo, right-handed pitcher Anderson Brito, and outfielders Kevin Alvarez and Luis Baez.
Robert, 27, battled injuries in 2024 but is just one season removed from a breakout All-Star campaign where he hit .264 with 38 home runs and 20 stolen bases. If he stays healthy, the Astros would be acquiring a Gold Glove outfielder with elite power to replace Tucker.
“Robert would be an immediate impact bat that could also return to an MVP-candidate level player at any point,” Pressnell wrote, noting that Houston could extend its World Series window with a move like this.
For the White Sox, a trade of Robert would indicate another step in their full-scale rebuild following their disastrous 41-121 season in 2024.
While their projected 20-win improvement in 2025 is a positive sign, it still leaves them very far from contention. Trading Robert now, while his value is high, could net the organization key pieces for the future.
Dezenzo offers power potential at the corners, Brito is a young flamethrowing right-hander, and Alvarez and Baez provide additional outfield depth.
Photo Credit: Erik Williams-Imagn Images
