White Sox outfield prospect has a goal of reaching major leagues in 2018. Young players bonding during hitters mini-camp.
There are many Chicago White Sox young players that are taking part in hitting coach Todd Steverson’s hitters mini-camp this week. Many of those players have aspirations of reaching the majors a lot sooner than some would expect. One of those players is Sox outfield prospect Luis Robert.
Robert got his first taste of the United States earlier this week as he takes part in the hitters’ minicamp in Arizona. After having an impressive batting practice which excited some of the other Sox young hitters, Robert has already stated his top goal is reaching the majors this season.
More from White Sox News
- The Chicago White Sox might have had a season ending loss
- The Chicago White Sox are expecting Tim Anderson back soon
- Miguel Cairo’s words spark life into the Chicago White Sox
- Dylan Cease should be the favorite for the AL Cy Young Award
- Ozzie Guillen speaks the whole truth about Tony La Russa
The Sox were able to sign Robert as an international free agent last season and the young Cuban outfielder had an impressive first season in the organization. Robert played 28 games with the Sox Dominican Summer League affiliate in 2017. The 20-year-old hit .310/.491/.536 with three home runs, 14 RBI’s, 22 walks and 12 stolen bases.
According to James Fegan of The Athletic, Robert understands his promotion is up to the Sox but his goal for 2018 is to reach the majors. This a very lofty goal for the young outfielder, but the Sox have shown they won’t rush any prospect during their current rebuild. Robert has yet to play a game in the United States and could start this season with Single-A Kannapolis or Single-A Advanced Winston-Salem.
Luis Robert says it’s up to the team to decide, but his goal is to be in the majors this season
— James Fegan (@JRFegan) January 16, 2018
This week Robert has been showcasing his hitting abilities during the Sox hitters’ minicamp. With the team not expecting to contend in 2018, it doesn’t make much sense for the Sox to rush Robert through the system. He will still need to get accustomed to hitting in the United States and making adjustments in the minors.
Luis Robert doing some work off the tee. You might recognize the guy setting it up for him too pic.twitter.com/MvtGWa8jyQ
— James Fegan (@JRFegan) January 16, 2018
Next: Carlos Rodon Not Expected to Start 2018 Season
The Sox were very patient in promoting their top prospects to the majors last season. They figure to stay patient during what could be another losing year. If Robert is able to have success early this season, he could find himself in Double-A before the end of the first half. However, any idea of Robert being on the Sox before the end of this season should be considered a longshot. There’s nothing wrong with setting goals, but don’t expect to see Robert in a Sox uniform until 2019 at the earliest.