The New York Mets face significant gaps in their starting rotation heading into the offseason. While President of Baseball Operations David Stearns could focus on signing free agents to bolster the pitching staff, exploring the trade market presents another compelling avenue. One intriguing possibility is Seattle Mariners ace Luis Castillo.
The Mets’ rotation played a pivotal role in their near run to the 2024 World Series, falling just two wins short. However, key pitchers like Sean Manaea, Luis Severino, and José Quintana have since entered free agency. As the Mets aim to reload for 2025, Stearns has openly expressed his intent to acquire multiple starters.
Castillo offers an impressive resume and a manageable salary that aligns with the Mets’ financial flexibility. Since 2018, he has made at least 25 starts in every full season, including five campaigns with 30 or more. Over that span, the right-hander has compiled a 70-69 record with a 3.59 ERA, 1.18 WHIP, and 1,233 strikeouts across 1,140 2/3 innings.
The soon-to-be 32-year-old is under contract through 2027, thanks to a five-year, $108 million extension with Seattle. He’s set to earn $24.15 million annually from 2025-27, with a $25 million vesting option for 2028. If the Mariners are open to shedding payroll, the Mets might explore a path to acquire him.
FanSided’s Damien Flores proposed a hypothetical trade involving:
- Mets receive: RHP Luis Castillo
- Mariners receive: IF Ronny Mauricio, IF Luisangel Acuña, RHP Nolan McLean
This deal would send significant young talent to Seattle. MLB.com ranks Mauricio (6th), Acuña (12th), and McLean (9th) among the Mets’ top 15 prospects. In return, New York would secure a reliable ace for multiple seasons at a relatively low financial cost. For Seattle, Mauricio and Acuña offer MLB-ready offensive potential, though Mauricio is recovering from an ACL injury.
While any potential deal might differ from this proposal, Castillo remains a fascinating trade option—should Seattle make him available. It’s a scenario worth watching.
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