Phillies Trade Proposal Sends Struggling Prospect to White Sox for Luis Robert Jr…

The Philadelphia Phillies have prioritized building a strong starting rotation. With Zack Wheeler, Aaron Nola, and Cristopher Sánchez locked into significant contracts, and Jesús Luzardo and Ranger Suárez rounding out the rotation, there’s little room for top pitching prospects to develop into MLB-ready arms. Aside from top prospect Andrew Painter—expected to make his debut in 2025—most farm system players are considered tradeable assets.

According to a trade proposal from *Athlon Sports*, the Phillies could move eighth-ranked prospect Mick Abel and infielder Edmundo Sosa in exchange for Chicago White Sox slugger Luis Robert Jr. This deal would offer the 23-year-old Abel an opportunity to “revitalize” his status and potentially earn big-league innings with the White Sox this season. Abel has struggled in the Phillies’ system, posting a 6.46 ERA over 108.2 innings in 24 starts at AAA Lehigh Valley, and time may be running out for him to turn things around.

Chicago, on the other hand, may be looking to offload Robert Jr.’s six-year, $50 million contract, which hasn’t yielded the expected results. The talented outfielder, who had a disappointing 2024 campaign, showcased his potential in 2023 with 38 home runs and 36 doubles, earning an All-Star selection. A change of scenery and a more hitter-friendly ballpark in Philadelphia could help him regain his form.

Additionally, the White Sox could benefit from veteran leadership to support their young core, making the 29-year-old Sosa an appealing fit. Known for his defensive versatility and solid bat, Sosa hit .257 over 249 at-bats in 2024.

For the Phillies, adding a reliable center-field bat is a top priority, and Robert Jr. could be the missing piece in their lineup.