Luis Robert Jr.'s Mets Tenure Ends After Injury and Waiver Claim

Acquired to be an offensive upgrade in center field, Luis Robert Jr.'s 2026 season with the Mets was derailed by back issues from April 30 to July 20. During his absence, A.J. Ewing seized the starting role, hitting .252 with 11 home runs. Robert struggled in 58 games, batting .223 with 10 home runs. Unable to find a trade partner, the Mets placed him on waivers in August and he was claimed by the Orioles, leaving the team to prioritize the development of younger, cost-controlled talent.