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The Mets are applying a Moneyball approach before the start of the season. By continuing their strategy of low-cost, low-profile signings, they are betting on a last-minute signing with a player whose career has been in decline, but there is confidence in the coaching staff to reinvent him.
This is Luis Robert Jr. The All-Star center fielder enjoyed an outstanding start to his MLB career with the White Sox, but his level of performance has dropped dramatically over the past two years.
In fact, he missed 114 games over the past two seasons due to various injuries, including hip and hamstring problems. Currently, his physical condition is not adequate, so he was not considered at the start of camp
- Robert Jr. signed a six-year, $50 million contract with the White Sox in 2020, before finishing as runner-up for the American League Rookie of the Year award.
He joined the Mets in a trade in January, which sent infielder Luisangel Acuna and pitching prospect Truman Pauley to the other team.
Carlos Mendoza trusts in the reinvention of Luis Robert Jr
The Mets manager believes the outfielder can return to the level of his excellent 2023 campaign if he can stay on the field throughout the season. Mendoza told the press that he will carry out close monitoring on a daily basis to keep him healthy, so he will spend time on the bench at regular intervals until he reaches his peak.
It's a conversation I need to have with him after every game. The good thing is that he knows there is a plan in place and that we care and have his best interests at heart. If we can keep this player healthy, the sky is the limit
His big moment with the White Sox
During his 2023 All-Star campaign, Robert Jr. produced 5.3 bWAR while playing 145 games. That year he slashed .264/.315/.542, with 20 stolen bases, 38 home runs, 80 RBIs and a 130 OPS+.