The Texas Rangers remain firmly in the AL West race, trailing the division-leading Seattle Mariners by just 1.5 games at 45-45 while also holding the American League’s final Wild Card spot entering July 6.
With the trade deadline approaching, Texas could become a buyer if it stays in contention. One proposed move came from former MLB general manager Jim Bowden of The Athletic, who suggested the Rangers target outfielder Luis Robert Jr. from the New York Mets to boost their offense.
Bowden’s proposal would send two prospects — left-handed pitcher Dalton Pence and outfielder Paxton King — to New York in exchange for Robert.
While the deal could address a need in center field, the cost appears steep considering Robert’s recent struggles and injury concerns.
King, a 23-year-old outfielder selected in the 2025 draft, has posted an .804 OPS across 53 games at High-A this season.
Pence, a 2024 draft pick, has impressed with a 2.60 ERA over 13 starts between High-A and Double-A. According to MLB Pipeline, Pence ranks as Texas’ No. 12 prospect, while King sits at No. 21.
Robert, meanwhile, has spent much of the season on the injured list. Before getting hurt, he hit .224 with a .656 OPS in 24 games.
Since his breakout 2023 campaign, when he earned All-Star honors and hit 38 home runs, his production has steadily declined, with below-average OPS+ marks in each season since.
Although Robert’s talent and upside could make him an appealing reclamation project, surrendering two promising prospects for a player carrying a sizable contract, injury concerns, and declining performance may be more risk than reward for Texas.
From the Rangers’ perspective, the proposed package appears too costly for a player whose best days may be behind him.
