Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Luis Robert Jr.

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 29, 2026

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

Luis Robert Jr. is a Cuban-born professional baseball center fielder, currently playing for the New York Mets in MLB. He previously played for the Chicago White Sox after signing with them in 2017, following his defection from Cuba in 2016. Robert made his MLB debut in 2020, earning a Gold Glove Award that same year. In 2023, he was recognized as an All-Star, solidifying his status as a prominent player in the league.

Sections (2)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements

2013: Played in the Cuban National Series

From 2013 to 2015, Luis Robert Jr. played in the Cuban National Series for Ciego de Ávila.

2015: Played in the Cuban National Series

From 2013 to 2015, Luis Robert Jr. played in the Cuban National Series for Ciego de Ávila.

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 of the Can-Am League

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

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.

2016: Defection from Cuba

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

April 20, 2017: Declared a Free Agent

On April 20, 2017, Luis Robert Jr. was declared a free agent, but was not eligible to sign with any major league club until May 20.

May 27, 2017: Signed with the Chicago White Sox

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

2017: Signed with the White Sox

In 2017, Luis Robert Jr. signed with the Chicago White Sox.

2017: Removed 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: Injury in Spring Training

In 2018, Luis Robert Jr. made his first start in the outfield in a spring training game and hit a go-ahead grand slam but was then placed on the injured list for two months after spraining a ligament in his left thumb while sliding into second base.

2019: Minor League Stats

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

2019: Minor League Season and Achievements

In 2019, Luis Robert Jr. started with the Winston-Salem Dash, was promoted to the Birmingham Barons on April 30, named to the All-Star Futures Game, debuted with the Class AAA Charlotte Knights on July 11 hitting two home runs with seven RBIs in his first game, and joined the 30/30 club.

January 2, 2020: Signed Six-Year Contract

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. batted .298/.356/.660 with seven doubles, nine home runs, 20 RBIs, and three stolen bases over 26 games and won the American League (AL) Rookie of the Month Award.

2020: MLB Debut

In 2020, Luis Robert Jr. made his Major League Baseball (MLB) debut.

2021: Hip Flexor Injury

In 2021, Luis Robert Jr. slashed .316/.359/.461 in 25 games before suffering a complete tear of his right hip flexor on May 2, requiring a lengthy rehabilitation period and placement on the 60-day injured list.

July 14, 2022: First Career Grand Slam

On July 14, 2022, Luis Robert Jr. hit his first career grand slam off of Sonny Gray in a game against the Minnesota Twins at Target Field.

2023: All-Star Selection

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

April 5, 2024: Grade 2 Flexor Strain

On April 5, 2024, Luis Robert Jr. suffered a Grade 2 flexor strain in his right hip in a game against the Kansas City Royals and was subsequently placed on the 10-day injured list.