Orioles Claim Luis Robert Jr. as September Push Gets New Power Option
- PowerPage Sports Staff
- 5 hours ago
- 2 min read
The Orioles claim Luis Robert Jr. off outright waivers from the Mets, giving Baltimore a proven right-handed center-field option just before September roster eligibility closed. The move arrives with the Orioles 68–69 and one game behind Cleveland for the final American League Wild Card spot entering Monday.
Robert, 29, hit .223 with 10 home runs, 23 RBIs and a .702 OPS in 58 games during his only season with New York. A lumbar spine disc herniation kept him on the injured list from late April through July, making this a calculated bet on both health and upside rather than a response to his strongest season.
The ceiling is easy to understand. Robert was an American League All-Star and Silver Slugger in 2023, and he won a Gold Glove in 2020. He spent his first six major-league seasons with the White Sox before joining the Mets, so Baltimore is adding experience in center field rather than asking a new player to learn the position.
His right-handed bat also changes the outfield mix. Center field has been handled mostly by left-handed hitter Colton Cowser and switch-hitter Leody Taveras. Robert gives manager Craig Albernaz another matchup option while the Orioles try to carry the momentum from Gunnar Henderson’s two-homer sweep finale in Sacramento.
Baltimore will owe roughly $3 million for the remainder of Robert’s 2026 salary. His contract includes a $20 million club option for 2027 with a $2 million buyout, giving the organization a longer-term decision after it evaluates his September performance.
The Orioles made three connected roster moves Monday: left-hander Cade Povich was recalled from Triple-A Norfolk to start at Colorado, right-hander Anthony Nunez was optioned and infielder Luis Vázquez was designated for assignment. Because Robert joined the organization before September 1, he will be eligible for a postseason roster if Baltimore completes its push.
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