While we wait out the rain at Guaranteed Rate, let’s check out today’s moment in White Sox history. May 27th not only marks the birthday of Frank Thomas and Yoan Moncada, but also the day when Luis Robert officially became a member of the Chicago White Sox.
Robert, the top-ranked international amateur player, was not subtle at all when it came time to announce his decision on May 20th. With a ton of hype and anticipation, the Cuban outfielder changed his Instagram profile picture to one of him wearing a Chicago White Sox hat. Here’s a look back at when we noticed this…
BREAKING: Luis Robert changes his Instagram profile pic to one of him wearing a Chicago White Sox hat. pic.twitter.com/Gqfcj0TZi3
— Sox On 35th (@SoxOn35th) May 20, 2017
After White Sox twitter went into a frenzy, the agreement was made public a few hours later. Fast-forward a week to the 27th and the deal became official as Luis Robert was being announced to the public at a press conference. This was a huge addition that came at the beginning of the White Sox rebuild, just a few months after Chris Sale and Adam Eaton were traded away for prospects.
Passion. Pride. Tradition.
Welcome to Chicago, Luis Robert! pic.twitter.com/x91lAkGa62
— Chicago White Sox (@whitesox) May 27, 2017
Following the press conference, Robert took a short walk out the field and threw out the ceremonial first pitch to Jose Abreu before that day’s doubleheader.
Prior to Game 1 of today’s doubleheader, Luis Robert threw a ceremonial first pitch to José Abreu. WATCH: pic.twitter.com/dgeFIQ1Ky1
— Chicago White Sox (@whitesox) May 27, 2017
While “La Pantera” has battled some injuries, he’s shown what he’s capable of doing when he’s healthy. In time split between High-A and Double-A this year, the organization’s No. 4 prospect is slashing .358/.420/.692 with 10 homers, 15 doubles, 4 triples, 33 RBI, 14 stolen bases, and a 1.112 OPS.
We’ll see what kind of damage Robert can do throughout the remainder of this season and beyond. It won’t be too much longer before we see him as the everyday centerfielder on the South Side.
Be sure to follow us on social media @SoxOn35th and stay tuned for more “Today in White Sox History” articles!
Featured Photo: AP
He had to be better than we have now. With him in ctr, Jiminez in left and Tillson in right we could possibly have one of the better balanced outfield in the AL.