10. San Diego Padres
Record: 32-34, 2nd in NL West
Current Center Fielder: Jackson Merrill
The Padres acquired Dylan Cease from the White Sox in March, and now they reportedly have their eye on left-hander Garrett Crochet. Could a package deal work? It's a fun concept, but here's where reality crashes the party: San Diego's outfield is already one of MLB's best.
9. Minnesota Twins
Record: 33-29, 3rd in AL Central
Current Center Fielder: Byron Buxton
Buxton's return to center field isn't going well, as he has only .639 OPS on top of less-than-encouraging hitting metrics. A trade for Robert would spare Buxton from this burden, but the Twins also have bigger needs to fill. Like, say, in left field and on the mound.
8. San Francisco Giants
Record: 30-33, T-3rd in NL West
Current Center Fielder: Mike Yastrzemski
The Giants were dealt a huge blow when Jung Hoo Lee had season-ending shoulder surgery last month. They'd certainly be better off with Robert in his place than Yastrzemski. But with only so many prospects to barter with, they should seek less-risky additions.
7. Baltimore Orioles
Record: 39-22, 2nd in AL East
Current Center Fielder: Cedric Mullins
The Orioles need a pitcher or two much more than they need another hitter, but they do have the prospect capital to pursue Robert. He'd be an easy upgrade over Mullins, who's already losing playing time amid a struggle marked by a .539 OPS.
6. Atlanta
Record: 35-25, 2nd in NL East
Current Center Fielder: Michael Harris II
Atlanta isn't necessarily seeking an outfielder in the wake of Ronald Acuña Jr.'s torn ACL, but a deal for Robert is as close as they can come to filling those shoes. But if they add even $4 million in average value to their books, they'll go over the second luxury-tax threshold.
