Robert 'didn't think' he would be on White Sox for Opening Day

Chicago White Sox outfielder Luis Robert Jr. was prepared to be traded during the offseason.

"Honestly, no," Robert said Wednesday when asked if he believed during the first few months of the offseason that he'd be with the White Sox for Thursday's Opening Day, according to Scott Merkin of MLB.com.

"I know there were a lot of rumors around there, and I didn't think I would be here. But I'm glad that I'm here."

Chicago reportedly discussed trading Robert to the Cincinnati Reds over the winter, but talks ended due to disagreements over how much of the 2023 All-Star's salary the White Sox would retain.

Robert recorded 14 homers, 35 RBIs, 23 stolen bases, and a career-low .657 OPS over 100 games last season amid the White Sox's record-setting 121-loss campaign. Injuries again hampered the 27-year-old, as he's only logged over 100 contests once over his five-year career.

"If I'm able to stay healthy throughout the whole season, it will be a successful season for me," Robert added. "And I want to win."

The White Sox kick off their new season at Rate Field against the Los Angeles Angels.