Víctor Robles was once touted as a future five-tool star with game-changing ability. With Bryce Harper‘s departure looming, the Washington Nationals expected Robles to lead the extension of the team’s window of contention. Instead, Juan Soto burst on the scene and snatched that young star role while Robles struggled with injuries and underperformance.
And while he helped Washington win its first championship in 2019, Robles is set to join a new team after the Nationals designated him for assignment on Monday. Though he has yet to find prolonged major league success, Robles still flashes his tools and ability when on the field. Plus, at just 27, there’s logic in thinking that he could blossom under new guidance.
World Series Champion Victor Robles has been DFA’d by the Nats. He was the last position player remaining from the 2019 WS team. Thanks for everything, Victor. https://t.co/AsgJ74SxQE
— Voting is my superpower. 🌊 🌊 🗳️ (@AllisonMY) May 28, 2024
Robles will earn $2.65 million this year in his final season of control. If a team claims him on waivers, they will owe him the remainder of that salary through this year. Another option is to work out the financials in a trade with Washington, though it’s likely that will result in giving up a player in the system.
What typically happens is that no team will claim the player, leading Washington to release him. At that point, Robles will become a free agent and available to sign with any team. However, if a team really wants him and thinks they can turn his career around, they might not want to risk the chance of the open market.
Claiming Robles and taking on his salary (which isn’t too much) or trading for him is a realistic possibility. Multiple teams could use outfield upgrades and could benefit from giving Robles a several-week tryout before the July trade deadline.
Possible Landing Spots For Victor Robles
Atlanta Braves
The Atlanta Braves just lost reigning MVP Ronald Acuña Jr. for the season with another torn ACL. The Braves quickly designated a veteran infielder they signed days earlier to call up uninspiring minor league veteran J.P Martínez just to have outfield depth.
Even with his major league struggles, Robles represents a clear upgrade for the Braves. Michael Harris II will roam center while Jarred Kelenic and Adam Duvall are best utilized in a left field platoon. With Acuña Jr. hurt, right field is open for Robles.
Victor Robles would be a very, very good defensive backup as the No. 4 or No. 5 outfielder. Robles can play all three outfield positions with a ton of experience in center.
Robles has played just 46.0 innings in right field this season 🤔
3 DRS
1 OAA
1 FRV https://t.co/QavtDfQzRL— Kevin Keneely (@KevinKeneely1) May 27, 2024
While it’s unfair to expect Robles to put up Acuña Jr.-like numbers, it’s worthwhile for Atlanta to give him a shot to provide average value. At the very least, Robles has produced solid defensive numbers (8 Defensive Runs Saved and 1 Out Above Average) in 190 2/3 career right field innings. Plus, his offensive upside is way higher than the team’s current fourth outfielder.
Even more, the Braves don’t have to rely on Robles through October. Atlanta is in a good position to make the playoffs. Losing the reigning MVP hurts, but the remaining healthy stars should keep the team afloat. That said, right field can’t become a black hole now or for the playoffs.
The Braves need a veteran who can provide at least average production until the July trade deadline. So, acquiring Robles would represent a six-to-eight-week tryout period before a veteran upgrade becomes available. And even if Robles improves with his new team, he holds value in a fourth outfielder/pinch runner role that excels in October baseball.
Taking a low-cost flier on Robles seems like a no-brainer for an Atlanta team that thrives at developing players. While it’s unclear if Washington would trade him to a division rival, the Braves should show some aggression in acquiring Robles.
Texas Rangers
The Texas Rangers have been roughly below average in many ways this season. Despite the sluggish start, the team remains in the playoff mix and committed to making the postseason. Texas expects a midseason boost when high-caliber pitchers, plus their young third baseman, return from injuries.
In the meantime, the Rangers should look to improve along the edges of the roster right now. Wins in May and June matter just as much as wins in August and September.
Adolis García and Ezequiel Durán are the only two Rangers outfielders who are hitting. However, an arm issue is forcing Garcia to DH, while Duran is splitting time at third base.
Texas also has three outfielders (Robbie Grossman, Travis Jankowski, and Derek Hill) with limited potential on the active roster. Even with his struggles, Robles is a clear upgrade over Hill and has more upside than Jankowski. Grossman could have veteran value, but currently looks finished.
Robles will bring his new team tools and talent. Texas must see the creative ways to get value from him. First, Robles’ defense will benefit the pitching via run prevention. Per DRS and OAA, Robles is a clear defensive upgrade in right field than what Texas has received this year.
Evan Carter is in a 2 for 31 and is 7 for 46 in May. He is batting below .200. I can’t believe I’m saying this: But do the Rangers need to consider sending him down?
— Evan Grant (@Evan_P_Grant) May 23, 2024
Additionally, Robles represents a solid option to platoon with rookie Evan Carter. In his eight-year career, Robles has a 101 wRC+ against southpaws. Meanwhile, Carter has a 140 wRC+ against righties (-134 against lefties). Though Carter went on the injured list on Tuesday, Robles can hold the fort while he’s out. When Carter returns, this pairing can ensure above-average offense, defense, and athleticism/speed from right field every day.
Texas made the playoffs by two games last year. Every win matters. Robles can improve the team and lead to more wins right now. Texas should pounce on this opportunity while it continues to stagger.
Cleveland Guardians and Kansas City Royals
The Cleveland Guardians and Kansas City Royals sit atop the American League Central despite receiving no offense from right fielders. And unlike Atlanta and Texas, both teams will be cost-conscious at the deadline. So, it behooves them to take as many fliers as possible when they become available.
Cleveland has one of the better offenses in the game (believe it or not). However, right field has been a black hole (71 wRC+ good for 28th best in MLB). The job is wide open after the release of Ramon Laureano. Powerful prospect Johnathan Rodriguez got the first chance to claim the job, but he has struggled in a short sample size.
The Guardians are young and scrappy with a deep, dominant bullpen that can help cover a mediocre rotation. Now, if only ownership would find some loose change to add a starter or an outfield bat at the trade deadline…@ESPNCleveland @TheRealTRizzo @NickPaulus @karnsies817 pic.twitter.com/Qce39J4VAV
— Browny (@T1000Hancock) May 23, 2024
Kansas City is in a similar boat. Royals right fielders have by far the worst wRC+ (57) in the league. Hunter Renfroe has received most of the reps in right and likely has a long leash. Though defensive metrics are down on his performance in recent years, Renfroe carries a reputation as a great fielder.
Renfroe also provides above-average walk and strikeout rates with good bat speed. He’s shown great power in the past, but hasn’t tapped into it in a couple of years. At some point, Kansas City can’t keep waiting for his breakout and will have to move on.
Both teams will want to take advantage of strong starts and make the playoffs. The division might be the only way either squad makes the postseason. And as Texas knows, every win will matter. This division might come down to one mid-summer victory.
Considering the severe lack of production from right field, Robles could provide both contenders great value with his solid defense and offense in the platoon advantage. Both the Guardians and Royals don’t have deep pockets, so adding Robles is worth the gamble.
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