Orioles Acquire Luis Robert Jr. from Mets Ahead of Playoff Eligibility Deadline

The Baltimore Orioles have claimed outfielder Luis Robert Jr. off waivers from the New York Mets, as announced on Monday, just before the deadline for players to join a team for playoff eligibility.

Robert Jr., who has played only 58 games this season due to a back injury, has shown promise when healthy, posting a slugging percentage of .454 since his return. He is also recognized for his defensive skills in center field and previously had a standout season in 2025 with the Chicago White Sox, where he stole 33 bases. In 2023, he was selected as an All-Star and received a Silver Slugger award.

By claiming Robert Jr., the Orioles will incur approximately $3 million in salary for the remainder of the 2026 season, along with a $20 million club option for 2027. This move allows the Mets to clear roster space for younger outfielders while the Orioles, currently one game behind the Guardians for the final American League wild-card spot, look to bolster their outfield after trading Taylor Ward to the Mariners.