‘Top target’-Royals Blockbuster Mock Trade Would Land $50 Million All-Star From AL Rival

A Bold Trade Proposal Could Bring a $50 Million All-Star to the Royals

The Kansas City Royals have had a quiet offseason since making a few key moves in November and December, such as Michael Wacha’s contract extension and the Jonathan India trade. While they’ve explored trade options like Alec Bohm and Nolan Arenado, no major deals have materialized.

It’s clear the Royals still need a powerful bat to bolster their lineup. After Bobby Witt Jr., there’s a lack of consistent power, especially with the potential decline of catcher Salvador Perez.

While the Royals’ farm system isn’t stacked with top-tier talent, they likely have enough to secure one more star player. That star could come from one of their division rivals, the Chicago White Sox.

Luis Robert Jr., the White Sox center fielder, is entering the final year of his $50 million extension, with club options for 2026 and 2027. Despite being one of the most discussed trade candidates over the past couple of years, Robert hasn’t been dealt. Even after a down year in 2024, Robert outperformed the Royals’ outfielders, and in 2023, he hit 38 home runs and earned a Silver Slugger Award.

Here’s a potential trade that could help the Royals acquire Robert to strengthen their offense:

Royals receive: CF Luis Robert Jr.
White Sox receive: RHP Ben Kurdna (Royals No. 3 prospect), C Carter Jenkins (No. 5), OF Asbel Gonzalez (No. 20)

Kurdna, who reached Double-A in 2024, is the Royals’ top pitching prospect. Jenkins, while solid, is somewhat expendable given the depth of the Royals’ catching prospects, including Blake Mitchell and major leaguers Perez and Freddy Fermin. Gonzalez, who also reached Double-A at just 19, is an intriguing prospect who could develop into a future replacement for Robert in Chicago.

While the Royals would have to give up valuable talent, acquiring Robert, even after a rough 2024, would significantly improve their offense and raise their 2025 season outlook. Meanwhile, the White Sox, far from playoff contention, shouldn’t be concerned about trading within the division.