Orioles decline Robert's '27 team option after injury-plagued season

BALTIMORE -- Luis Robert Jr. played only three games for the Orioles during the 2026 season, and his tenure with the club could already be over.

Robert’s 2027 team option worth $20 million has been declined by Baltimore, the club announced Saturday evening, as the 29-year-old outfielder will receive a $2 million buyout and become a free agent.

This is a move that was widely expected, considering Robert had only a brief stint with the O’s and has struggled to stay healthy.

The Mets placed Robert on outright waivers on Aug. 29, then he was claimed by the Orioles two days later. The Ciego de Avila, Cuba, native went 2-for-11 (.182) with one double, one home run, three RBIs and one walk before being placed on the injured list on Sept. 5 with a left hamstring injury that ended his season.

Earlier in the year, Robert missed nearly three months due to a lumbar spine herniation. He hit .223 with four doubles, 10 homers, 23 RBIs and a .702 OPS in 58 games with the Mets, who had acquired him in a trade with the White Sox on Jan. 20.

Robert spent the first six years of his MLB career with Chicago. He was the American League Rookie of the Year Award runner-up and a Gold Glove winner in 2020, while earning an All-Star selection and winning a Silver Slugger Award in ‘23.

Perhaps Baltimore will look to bring Robert back on a smaller deal. The O’s could use a right-handed bat in their outfield mix, and he could fill that role, if he stays healthy.

The Orioles have one remaining option decision to make, as first baseman Ryan Mountcastle has a $7.5 million team option for 2027. The club has already declined right-hander Zach Eflin’s $25 million mutual option for next season, which made him a free agent, along with left-handers Keegan Akin and Trevor Rogers and righties Chris Bassitt and Andrew Kittredge.

Right-hander Ryan Helsley opted into his $14 million player option for next season and will be returning to Baltimore’s bullpen.