The New York Mets acquired Luis Robert Jr. in a blockbuster trade with the Chicago White Sox on Tuesday, it has been announced.

Mets infielder Luisangel Acuna and minor league pitcher Truman Pauley have been sent to Chicago as part of the trade for Robert, who has struggled with injuries and inconsistency since a stellar 2023 season.

The Mets, who had been looking for outfield help since they traded Brandon Nimmo to the Texas Rangers for second baseman Marcus Semien, have filled a hole in center field by bringing the 28-year-old to Citi Field.

They were also in the mix for Kyle Tucker before he signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

The trade for Robert also comes a few days after the Mets signed two-time All-Star shortstop Bo Bichette to a three-year, $126million deal. 

In 2023, the Cuban star enjoyed one of the most complete seasons in White Sox history after slashing .264/.315/.542 with 38 home runs, 36 doubles, 20 stolen bases, 90 runs scored and 80 RBIs.

That impressive form earned him an All-Star selection, while he also won a Gold Glove and finished second in the American League Rookie of the Year voting in 2020.

The six-year veteran struggled in the last two campaigns, hitting a career-worst .223 in 2024 with 14 home runs, 53 RBIs and a career-best 33 stolen bases.

Despite the shaky performance, the White Sox still picked up his $20m option for 2026. His contract also has a $20m club option for 2027 with a $2m buyout.

Heading in the opposite direction to Chicago is Acuna, the 23-year-old who hit .234 and stole 16 bases in 95 games for the Mets, and 22-year-old Pauley, a 12th-round pick in this year's draft. 

Chicago now boasts a strong infield lineup, with new Japanese first baseman Munetaka Murakami, shortstop Colson Montgomery, second baseman Chase Meidroth, third baseman Miguel Vargas and the best pair of young catchers in baseball in Kyle Teel and Edgar Quero.

The White Sox also holds the No. 1 pick in this year's MLB Draft, which is expected to be UCLA shortstop Roch Cholowsky.