The Philadelphia Phillies have made a major splash this offseason by acquiring three-time All-Star pitcher Luis Castillo from the Seattle Mariners. The move addresses a key need in the rotation as the Phillies look to bolster their pitching staff for another deep postseason run in 2025.
Castillo, a 31-year-old right-hander, has established himself as one of the most reliable arms in the game. Over the past six seasons, he has delivered consistently strong performances, including five campaigns with at least 30 starts. In that span, Castillo has compiled a 3.59 ERA, a 1.18 WHIP, and 1,233 strikeouts across 1,140 2/3 innings, solidifying his reputation as an ace.
The Phillies acquired Castillo in exchange for a package of talented prospects, sending infielder Kendall Simmons, pitcher Mick Abel, outfielder Johan Rojas, and pitcher Andrew Painter to Seattle. MLB.com ranks Abel and Painter among the Phillies’ top prospects, making this deal a significant investment in the present for the team.
President of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski praised Castillo’s talent and the immediate impact he will bring. “Luis Castillo is one of the premier pitchers in baseball, and we’re thrilled to add him to our rotation. He not only strengthens our team for next season but gives us stability for years to come,” Dombrowski said.
Under contract through 2027 thanks to a $108 million extension with the Mariners, Castillo will earn $24.15 million annually from 2025 to 2027, with a $25 million vesting option for 2028. His affordable salary and long-term commitment make him a cornerstone for the Phillies’ rotation alongside Zack Wheeler and Aaron Nola.
Seattle, meanwhile, gains MLB-ready talent to aid their retooling efforts, headlined by Painter and Abel, who project as future frontline starters.
The Phillies, fresh off their playoff disappointment in 2024, are clearly signaling their intent to contend at the highest level in 2025. Castillo’s arrival is expected to solidify the team’s rotation, providing much-needed depth and firepower as they aim to bring another championship to Philadelphia.
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