The New York Mets are preparing to make a serious push for the 2025 World Series, and they’re exploring both free agency and the trade market for top talent. While signing stars like Juan Soto, Corbin Burnes, Max Fried, and retaining Pete Alonso are on the table, the Mets also have their eyes set on a hypothetical blockbuster trade with the Chicago White Sox. This move could bring in two key All-Stars, Garrett Crochet and Luis Robert Jr., to fortify their roster.
After a thrilling 2024 season that ended with an NLCS appearance, the Mets are intent on building a powerhouse lineup. They have both the financial resources and a strong prospect pool, allowing them flexibility in assembling a contending team. With the White Sox seeking prospects to fuel a rebuild, the timing could be perfect for a mutually beneficial deal.
Garrett Crochet and Luis Robert Jr. to Queens
CBS Sports’ Mike Axisa recently floated a potential trade idea that would see the Mets acquire both Crochet and Robert Jr., two of the White Sox’s most valuable players. Garrett Crochet, a high-upside 25-year-old left-hander with ace potential, is under team control through 2026. Though he has faced some injury concerns, Crochet’s performance last season demonstrated his immense potential, making him an ideal long-term addition to the Mets’ rotation, especially with Sean Manaea, Luis Severino, and Jose Quintana hitting free agency.
Luis Robert Jr., meanwhile, offers a dynamic combination of power, speed, and defensive skill in center field. Although he struggled through an injury-limited 2024, his 2023 season was stellar: he hit 38 home runs, stole 20 bases, earned a Gold Glove, and represented Chicago as an All-Star. With the Mets needing a reliable center fielder even if they land Soto, Robert’s talent and team-friendly control through 2027 make him an excellent fit.
Who Would the Mets Send to Chicago?
In Axisa’s proposal, the Mets would send a package of four players, including Luisangel Acuña and Brett Baty, to Chicago. Acuña, the younger brother of Ronald Acuña Jr., impressed in his brief 2024 stint with the Mets but struggled at the Triple-A level, reducing his prospect value. He’s currently ranked as the Mets’ No. 12 prospect by MLB Pipeline. Although his stock has slipped, Acuña still has potential as a solid supporting piece in a White Sox rebuild.
Brett Baty, another trade candidate, was once a top prospect with promising potential at third base. However, his major league production has been inconsistent, with a career .215/.282/.325 slash line, though his defense has improved. Baty’s offensive struggles and lack of remaining minor league options may limit his appeal as a main trade asset, but he could thrive with less pressure and regular playing time in Chicago.
The deciding factor for the White Sox would be the identity of the two additional players in the deal. To justify trading both Crochet and Robert, Chicago would likely demand top prospects like Brandon Sproat, Drew Gilbert, Jett Williams, or Carson Benge. Without high-value talent, it’s hard to envision the White Sox agreeing to part with both Crochet and Robert.
A No-Brainer for the Mets
This trade could be a transformative move for the Mets, allowing them to add two controllable, high-ceiling players without sacrificing their top-tier prospects. With Steve Cohen’s financial backing and a competitive core, New York’s quest for a World Series title would gain significant momentum. Although it’s unclear if the White Sox would bite on such an offer, Chris Getz’s past deals suggest some flexibility, making this blockbuster a possibility worth watching as the offseason unfolds.
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