The New York Mets have addressed a critical need in their starting rotation by officially acquiring three-time All-Star ace from the Seattle Mariners. This move, finalized in a four-player trade, provides the Mets with a dependable top-tier arm as they prepare for the 2025 season.
Castillo, 31, has been one of the most consistent pitchers in baseball over the past several years. Known for his durability, the right-hander has started 25 or more games in every full season since 2018, including five campaigns with at least 30 starts. Over that span, Castillo boasts a 3.59 ERA, 1.18 WHIP, and 1,233 strikeouts in 1,140 2/3 innings. His ability to anchor a rotation will be a welcome addition for the Mets, who are reloading after narrowly missing the 2024 World Series.
The trade package sent to Seattle includes top prospects Ronny Mauricio, Luisangel Acuña, and Nolan McLean. Mauricio, ranked sixth in the Mets’ farm system, offers MLB-ready offensive talent despite recently recovering from an ACL injury. Acuña, ranked 12th, and McLean, ranked ninth, provide the Mariners with high-upside infield and pitching depth.
For the Mets, Castillo’s contract is another major advantage. Signed through 2027 under a five-year, $108 million extension with a $25 million vesting option for 2028, Castillo offers elite performance at a reasonable financial commitment. He will earn $24.15 million annually from 2025 to 2027.
President of baseball operations David Stearns emphasized the significance of the deal. “Luis Castillo is a proven ace and a perfect fit for our rotation. His consistency and leadership will be invaluable as we aim to contend for a championship,” Stearns said.
While the Mariners opted to part ways with Castillo to retool their roster and shed payroll, the Mets solidify their position as a National League powerhouse. With Castillo joining forces alongside stars like Francisco Lindor and Pete Alonso, the team looks poised to make another deep playoff run in 2025. Fans and analysts alike are already calling this one of the most impactful trades of the offseason.
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