Orioles claim Luis Robert Jr. off waivers from Mets, saving $5 million

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — The New York Mets did not trade Luis Robert Jr. before the August 3 deadline, but he has now been claimed off waivers by the Baltimore Orioles. This move enables Robert to be eligible for the postseason and saves the Mets approximately $5 million. The Mets had an option on Robert’s contract for the next season valued at $20 million, which they were unlikely to exercise. Robert joined the Mets in a January trade with the Chicago White Sox but had a disappointing tenure, although he improved his performance in the final month, achieving an .841 OPS with six home runs. Interim manager Andy Green commented, "I think he closed out the chapter really well," referring to Robert's recent performance. Robert played in only 58 games for the Mets, recording a .702 OPS and spending nearly three months on the injured list due to a lumbar spine disc herniation. Another offseason acquisition, Jorge Polanco, also had a limited impact, appearing in only 37 games before undergoing season-ending ankle surgery. Mark Vientos was activated from the injured list to take Robert's place, having hit three home runs in a recent minor league rehab game. Justin Hagenman is set to be activated from the injured list and will start in Wednesday’s series finale, with plans to add him to the roster on September 1, alongside outfielder Nick Morabito. Hagenman has been recovering from a rib fracture sustained during spring training. Juan Soto was benched after playing two consecutive games following a calf strain and is expected to serve as the designated hitter during this series due to the artificial turf.