Potential Signing Of Luis Robert
This, coupled with a Moncada call up, is what should really have White Sox fans chewing their nails to the nub. Unless you live under a rock, you have probably heard by now that the nineteen-year-old Cuban phenom Luis Robert was officially declared a free agent by the MLB. However, even with him being a free agent, he cannot officially sign with a team until May 20th. This gives teams with legitimate interest enough time to properly scout Robert and see if he truly is worth the investment. (Spoiler: He is).
Robert is not a guy the White Sox are taking lightly. They have been considered one of, if not the favorites to land him, and are sending out the big guns. At Robert’s initial open showcase, the White Sox sent Marco Paddy to watch in person. For those unfamiliar, Paddy is the lead director of international scouting for the White Sox. Whenever he is involved, you know there is legitimate interest from a team standpoint. Reports are that Paddy loved what Robert showed as well.
This week, Robert has a private workout with a handful of clubs, including the White Sox. What really should excite fans is that both Kenny Williams and Rick Hahn will be in attendance to watch Robert put on a show.
How important is this? Well…
Reinsdorf gave KW and RH a blank check for that signing as far as I'm aware, and I'd imagine if KW and RH love Robert it'll be the same
— whitesoxdave (@barstoolWSD) April 25, 2017
Sending the big guns to personally watch Robert speaks volumes in what the White Sox want to accomplish. The front office has always been aggressive when it comes to international signings. Having Jose Abreu and Yoan Moncada already on the team, could also wind up playing a big factor.
For those wondering just how good Luis Robert can be, check out how he compares to Moncada’s tool set.
The most eye-popping thing about Robert is his power/speed combo. Although I would assume he loses a step once he fills out more of his 6’3 205 pound frame as he matures. Even so, the possibility of having these two in the same White Sox lineup is a very real thing.
Oh that reminds me…
The two stars have already played with each other on Cuba’s U-18 team back in 2013. This is just another factor that could help sway Robert into signing with Chicago. Robert and Moncada could be the White Sox version of Bryant/Rizzo for the next decade on the South Side.
Buckle Up
While the White Sox definitely overachieved in April, May is sure to be a rollercoaster ride. There will be no shortage of news as the team tries to maintain its hot start, and with Rodon and Moncada coming sooner than later, this could turn into a very interesting season. Behind the scenes, Rick Hahn and Kenny Williams are going to do anything and everything in their power to bring Luis Robert to the South Side.
Sit back, (try to) relax, and strap it down, White Sox fans. It’s going to be a wild month of May.
