PORT ST. LUCIE — Luis Robert Jr.’s Injury Challenges

Luis Robert Jr. has faced multiple injuries in his lower body over the last couple of seasons, making it hard for him to replicate the success he had during his All-Star year with the White Sox in 2023.

The 28-year-old outfielder, known for his impressive physical attributes, has only managed to play more than 110 games once in his six-year career. Discussions about the Mets as the team that can help Robert tap into his potential start with the critical task of keeping him on the field consistently.

“The more you play, the more chances you have to be successful. Yeah, the ultimate goal for me is to stay on the field,” Robert noted on Tuesday via an interpreter. “And once I can stay on the field, I think things will go in the direction I want them to go.”

Last month, the Mets traded Luis Angel Acuña and Truman Pauley to the White Sox, demonstrating their belief in Robert’s potential.

This trade caught Robert off guard as he had already begun sending his gear to the White Sox’s spring training facility in Arizona.

He had a tough time during the first half of last season but managed to find his stride post-All-Star break. Unfortunately, he went on the disabled list in late August due to a torn left hamstring and never returned to play for the White Sox.

In total last season, he played 110 games, recording a batting average of .223 with 14 home runs, 53 RBIs, and 33 stolen bases.

“Once the offseason began, I focused on strengthening the areas that had been problematic,” Robert explained. “We have been concentrating on making sure everything is strong and ready for the upcoming season.”

His accolades include a Gold Glove Award in 2020 and a Silver Slugger Award in 2023, where he hit 38 home runs and posted an impressive .857 OPS.

Coach Carlos Mendoza sees the potential in Robert, stating, “We have the tools: elite power, defensive speed. If he’s healthy, we see a lot of things he can do in 2023.”

The Mets are taking a cautious approach with Robert. Mendoza mentioned Robert would sit out early Grapefruit League games to build leg strength, although he’ll still engage in daily training sessions with the team.

This strategy also extends to teammates Francisco Alvarez and Brett Baty, who are dealing with their injuries. Alvarez is recovering from thumb ligament surgery, and Baty has been reported to have a hamstring strain.

“I trust their process,” said Robert. “They want what’s best for me.”

In center field, the Mets have other options, including top prospect Carson Benge and defensive standout Tyron Taylor, with Benge potentially stepping into the starting right field position.

When discussing the differences between his old team and the Mets, Robert emphasized, “It’s just the number of people around you. Coming to a team like this, you’re expected to win. With those expectations, there’s obviously more attention on the team. That’s probably the biggest difference.”

Regarding his trade to the Mets, Robert shared, “Once you get traded, you can’t really explain the feelings you have. I was excited and nervous. You hear so much about New York and how big it is, plus playing alongside so many stars. I knew a different phase of my career was starting.”