The minute this team starts dealing, the Rangers must be first in line

Just two years ago, Luis Robert Jr. was an All-Star with the Chicago White Sox. The six-foot-two 225-pound outfielder mashed 38 home runs, knocked in 80 runs and stole 20 bases while hitting .260.

He has been a popular trade target since the South Siders have perennially been among the worst teams in baseball since he came into the league in 2020.

The Rangers should absolutely be the first ones on the telephone with the club should they decide to part ways with Robert to get some younger players in return.

Although Robert is off to a slow start this year with a .181 average, he has still hit 5 homers and driven in 18 runs and leads the league with 18 stolen bases, so Robert can really scoot for a big man.

You have to believe that a change of scenery would be great for the 27-year-old Cuban native as the frustration of losing and being a part of so much ineptness is starting to take a toll on his mental approach to the game. Because there is no denying that Robert Jr. has all the physical tools to be one of the most well-rounded players in the league.

Robert Jr. is currently making $15 million in the final guaranteed season of his six-year, $50 million contract, with the club retaining a pair of $20 million club options for 2026 and 2027.

With the White Sox not going anywhere again this year, sitting at 15-35 as the Rangers come to town, you have to believe that Robert will be atop the wish lists of several buyers when and if they decide to part ways with ope of the only tradeable assets on their roster.

The Rangers' window for winning is right now, and they should do anything and everything possible to plug their current offensive holes. Robert Jr. also has plus range in the outfield and could be a long-term answer in center field.