The New York Mets have placed outfielder Luis Robert Jr. on outright waivers, according to MLB.com’s Anthony DiComo, potentially opening the door for another team to claim him and take on the remainder of his contract.
New York has not publicly confirmed the move, which could ultimately help the Mets reduce payroll commitments for the remainder of the season and beyond. Robert has roughly $5 million remaining in guaranteed money, including about $3 million in salary for 2026 and a $2 million buyout attached to his $20 million option for 2027. The Mets are not expected to exercise that option.
The move comes despite Robert showing significant improvement at the plate in recent weeks. After struggling following his return from a three-month stint on the injured list because of a lumbar spine injury, Robert has emerged as a productive offensive player. Entering Saturday, he was batting .311 with a .371 on-base percentage and .623 slugging percentage over his previous 19 games, while hitting six home runs during that stretch.
The Mets made Robert available before the August 3 trade deadline, but there was little interest from potential suitors. He was hitting poorly at the time and had posted a .347 on-base plus slugging percentage across his final seven games before the deadline.
Robert has also provided the Mets with additional defensive flexibility. The longtime center fielder has increasingly seen time in left field since joining New York.
Teams have 48 hours to claim Robert and assume his remaining salary. If he goes unclaimed, he will remain with the Mets without any change to his status.
The timing also gives interested clubs an opportunity to add Robert before September 1, the postseason eligibility deadline.
Robert, 29, joined the Mets in a January trade with the Chicago White Sox after spending six seasons in Chicago.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.