After a strong start to the season, the San Diego Padres still face a tough road ahead in competing with the rival Los Angeles Dodgers for a World Series spot. Boasting a powerful lineup, a solid starting rotation, and a deep bullpen, the Padres only have a few areas to address before the trade deadline. They’ve already pinpointed one key need. With veteran Jason Heyward sidelined due to a left oblique strain, the team has “started exploring the trade market for a left fielder,” according to Kevin Acee of The San Diego Union-Tribune.
As San Diego surveys its options, Jim Riley of BALLCAP Sports predicted the team may target Chicago White Sox outfielder Luis Robert Jr. “Put Luis Robert in a clubhouse led by Mike Shildt, surrounded by veteran leaders — that could be the spark he needs,” Riley said. He noted that Robert, despite struggling this season with a .191/.277/.309 slash line, still leads the majors with 21 stolen bases and has shown the ability to hit as many as 38 home runs in a season.
Riley also pointed out that Robert’s underwhelming performance in the final year of his $50 million extension with the White Sox could make him a bargain for the Padres. “If you can get him at a low cost, why not take the chance?” Riley said. “Even if he doesn’t pan out, he can just ride the bench.” The potential low-risk, high-reward nature of acquiring Robert makes him an intriguing trade deadline target for San Diego as they gear up for a playoff push.
