Amid the recent excitement around Alex Bregman’s signing and the drama surrounding Rafael Devers, the Boston Red Sox still face questions about their pitching staff.
The team made some improvements by adding former White Sox left-hander Garrett Crochet and ex-Dodgers All-Star Walker Buehler, but both have had frequent injury issues. Crochet, in particular, has only one year of experience as a starter. Additionally, Kutter Crawford’s recent knee issues have only heightened concerns among Red Sox fans as spring training approaches.
With Opening Day just over a month away, the Red Sox might still want to explore trade options to strengthen their rotation, especially if they hope to stay competitive in the tough AL East. One potential move they should consider is acquiring starting pitcher Luis Castillo from the Seattle Mariners.
Castillo, 32, checks all the boxes Boston needs. The three-time All-Star has been a reliable workhorse, with a 3.59 ERA and an average of 28 starts per season over the last seven years. Last year, Castillo went 11-12 with a 3.64 ERA in 175.1 innings. While he would come with a high trade price, the risk could be well worth the reward.
Here’s a possible trade that could benefit both teams:
Boston Red Sox receive: Luis Castillo, P
Seattle Mariners receive: Jhostynxon Garcia, OF; Blaze Jordan, 3B; Jedixson Paez, SP
Though this trade package may not seem overly impressive at first glance, Boston would be taking on Castillo’s significant contract—$108 million over five years with a vesting option for 2028—which could influence the trade terms.
Garcia, nicknamed “The Password,” is the centerpiece of the deal. The 22-year-old outfielder hit .286 with 23 home runs, 66 RBIs, and 17 stolen bases last season across three levels. Though he struck out 99 times against 33 walks, Garcia is quickly rising through the minors and has the ability to play all three outfield positions.
Blaze Jordan, who batted .261 with seven home runs and 61 RBIs in 89 games last year, has been less impressive since moving to Double-A in 2023. However, his versatility at first and third base, combined with his flashes of power, might appeal to Seattle.
Lastly, Jedixson Paez could be a hidden gem. The lanky 6-foot-1 pitcher posted a remarkable 113-12 strikeout-to-walk ratio in 96.2 innings last season. With experience as both a starter and reliever, his excellent control makes him a promising development project, potentially as a bullpen arm.
This trade could benefit both teams. The Red Sox would boost their rotation with a proven and durable starter in Castillo, while the Mariners would offload salary and acquire three intriguing prospects, with Garcia potentially ready for the majors soon.
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