The Phillies are once again in the market for a right-handed bat in the outfield – no surprise there. Harrison Bader was a solid midseason addition, bringing speed and glove work, but if Philadelphia wants to keep pace in a loaded National League, they’ll need more firepower. And that’s where Luis Robert Jr. enters the picture.

Robert is one of the most intriguing names on the trade market this offseason. He’s 28, right in the middle of his prime, and when healthy, he offers a rare mix of power, speed, and defensive ability in center field. For a Phillies team that could use a jolt of athleticism and right-handed pop, Robert checks just about every box.

But here’s where things get interesting: the Phillies aren’t the only team in pursuit. The Mets are reportedly in the mix as well, which makes sense given their own outfield needs and aggressive front office. Yet, the biggest threat to land Robert might not be one of the usual big-market suspects.

Enter the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Yes, the Pirates – a team not typically known for making splashy moves – are now being viewed as a serious contender in the Luis Robert Jr. sweepstakes. According to reporting, if a lower-payroll team like Pittsburgh misses out on top-tier free agents, they could pivot and make a strong push for Robert, especially if the White Sox are willing to eat some of the $20 million he’s owed in 2026.

That’s a twist few saw coming.

The logic is sound, though. For a team like the Pirates, who rarely dive into the deep end of free agency, acquiring a player like Robert via trade could be a way to add a star without the long-term financial commitment. And if Chicago is willing to cover part of the salary to get a better return, that makes the deal even more appealing to a club operating on a tighter budget.

Meanwhile, for the Phillies, the clock is ticking. They’re clearly in win-now mode and have the resources to make a deal happen.

Robert would fit snugly into the middle of their lineup and provide a defensive upgrade in the outfield. But if this turns into a bidding war – not just in terms of prospects, but also in how much salary a team is willing to absorb – Philadelphia might find themselves in an unexpected dogfight with a team like Pittsburgh.

The Mets, too, are lurking. With Steve Cohen’s willingness to spend and a front office that’s not shy about bold moves, they can’t be counted out. But if this becomes more about value and flexibility than just financial muscle, a smaller-market team that’s willing to be aggressive could end up stealing the show.

So while the Phillies and Mets are logical landing spots for Luis Robert Jr., the real wildcard might be a team like the Pirates – a club that sees an opportunity, has the prospect capital, and is willing to get creative. If that happens, Philadelphia’s search for a right-handed outfield bat could get a lot more complicated.