Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Luis Robert Jr.

How Luis Robert Jr. built a successful career. Explore key moments that defined the journey.

Luis Robert Jr. is a Cuban professional baseball center fielder currently playing for the Chicago White Sox in MLB. He defected from Cuba in 2016 and signed with the White Sox in 2017, making his MLB debut in 2020. Robert quickly established himself as a talented player, earning a Gold Glove Award in his debut year. In 2023, he was recognized as an All-Star, solidifying his position as a key player for the White Sox.

Sections (2)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements

2013: Cuban National Series Debut

In 2013, Luis Robert Jr. began playing in the Cuban National Series for Ciego de Ávila.

2015: Final Season with Ciego de Ávila

In 2015, Luis Robert Jr. played his last season with Ciego de Ávila in the Cuban National Series.

2015: 18U Baseball World Cup

In 2015, Luis Robert Jr. represented Cuba in the 18U Baseball World Cup and was named to the all-tournament team.

June 2016: Goodwill Tour with Cuban National Team

In June 2016, Luis Robert Jr. played for the Cuban national team during a goodwill tour of the Can-Am League.

November 2016: Defection from Cuba

In November 2016, Luis Robert Jr. defected from Cuba to pursue a Major League Baseball (MLB) career in the United States.

April 20, 2017: Declared Free Agent

On April 20, 2017, Luis Robert Jr. was declared a free agent.

May 27, 2017: Signing with the Chicago White Sox

On May 27, 2017, Luis Robert Jr. signed a contract with the Chicago White Sox, which included a $26 million signing bonus. He then reported to the DSL White Sox.

2017: Signing with the White Sox

In 2017, Luis Robert Jr. signed with the Chicago White Sox of Major League Baseball (MLB).

2017: Removal from World Baseball Classic Consideration

In 2017, Luis Robert Jr. was slated to represent Cuba in the World Baseball Classic, but was removed from consideration after his defection.

2018: First Outfield Start and Injury

In 2018, Luis Robert Jr. made his first start at outfield in a spring training game. He later hit a go-ahead grand slam, but was placed on the injured list for two months due to a sprained ligament in his left thumb.

2019: Minor League Promotions and All-Star Futures Game Selection

In 2019, Luis Robert Jr. began the season with the Winston-Salem Dash, was promoted to the Birmingham Barons on April 30, and was named to the 2019 All-Star Futures Game. He debuted with the Class AAA Charlotte Knights on July 11 and joined the 30/30 club during the season.

2019: Minor League Achievements

In 2019, Luis Robert Jr. scored 108 runs, the second most in the minor leagues, and led the minors with 165 hits.

January 2, 2020: Contract Extension with the White Sox

On January 2, 2020, Luis Robert Jr. agreed to a six-year, $50 million contract with the Chicago White Sox.

August 2020: AL Rookie of the Month Award

In August 2020, Luis Robert Jr. won the American League (AL) Rookie of the Month Award after batting .298 with nine home runs and 20 RBIs.

2020: MLB Debut and Gold Glove Award

In 2020, Luis Robert Jr. made his Major League Baseball (MLB) debut and won the Gold Glove Award.

2021: Injury and Return

In 2021, Luis Robert Jr. suffered a complete tear of his right hip flexor on May 2, leading to a rehabilitation period and placement on the 60-day injured list. He was activated off the injured list on August 9.

July 14, 2022: First Career Grand Slam

On July 14, 2022, Luis Robert Jr. hit his first career grand slam against the Minnesota Twins.

2023: All-Star Selection

In 2023, Luis Robert Jr. was named an All-Star.

April 5, 2024: Hip Flexor Strain

On April 5, 2024, Luis Robert Jr. suffered a Grade 2 flexor strain in his right hip during a game against the Kansas City Royals, leading to a stint on the injured list.