The New York Mets have taken a major step in addressing their offseason needs by landing three-time All-Star pitcher Luis Castillo in a blockbuster trade with the Seattle Mariners. Castillo, one of the most durable and productive starting pitchers in the game, will bring a much-needed boost to the Mets’ rotation as they prepare for the 2025 season.
Castillo, 31, is entering the third year of a five-year, $108 million deal, which pays him $24.15 million annually through 2027. The deal also includes a $25 million vesting option for 2028 if Castillo surpasses 180 innings pitched in 2027, according to Spotrac. Since joining the Mariners in 2022, Castillo has established himself as a top-tier ace. Over the past two seasons, he’s made 30-plus starts, compiling a 25-21 record with a 3.48 ERA, a 1.13 WHIP, and 394 strikeouts across 372 1/3 innings.
Known for his reliability, Castillo has made at least 30 starts five times since 2018 and surpassed the 170-inning mark four times. His consistent production and durability make him an ideal fit for a Mets rotation that faces significant turnover this offseason.
The Trade Details
To acquire Castillo, the Mets reportedly sent utility man Jeff McNeil and a pair of prospects to Seattle. The Mariners, seeking to address offensive shortcomings, gain a versatile player in McNeil who can fill multiple positions while providing contact hitting. McNeil, despite struggling to replicate his 2022 batting title form, showed signs of resurgence in the second half of 2024. Before landing on the injured list, he slashed .289/.376/.547 in 149 plate appearances post-All-Star break.
Seattle’s need for offensive reinforcements was urgent after their second basemen combined for a .658 OPS in 2024, ranking 21st in the league. Additionally, their lineup’s league-worst 1,625 strikeouts highlighted a need for a player like McNeil, who excels at making contact.
Mets’ Perspective
This trade aligns with Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns’ aggressive approach to revamp the team’s rotation. Castillo’s addition provides New York with a proven, cost-controlled ace to pair with Kodai Senga and other potential offseason acquisitions. Moving McNeil also clears the remainder of his $50 million contract, giving the Mets more flexibility to address other areas of need.
As the Mets continue to build toward contention, the addition of Luis Castillo signals their commitment to assembling a championship-caliber roster. With one of baseball’s most dependable starters now in their rotation, the Mets are positioning themselves as serious contenders in the NL East.
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