The departure of the veteran starter to the Arizona Diamondbacks has left the San Francisco Giants in need of a veteran starting pitcher.
The San Francisco Giants are still in search of a veteran starting pitcher after missing out on Corbin Burnes, who signed a six-year, $210 million deal with the Arizona Diamondbacks. One potential trade target that has emerged is Seattle Mariners starter Luis Castillo, a player who might be available for the right price.
According to MLB Trade Rumors, the Giants are considered one of the three best fits for a potential Castillo trade, though pulling off such a deal could be challenging due to Castillo’s no-trade clause. He would need to approve a move to San Francisco, but his contract—running through 2027 with an annual salary of just over $24 million and a $25 million vesting option for 2028—is relatively affordable compared to Burnes’ deal.
Despite a career losing record (73-76), Castillo boasts a solid 3.56 ERA, strikes out nearly 10 batters per nine innings, and has earned three All-Star selections. With Oracle Park’s pitcher-friendly dimensions, Castillo could thrive as part of a Giants rotation that currently includes Logan Webb, Robbie Ray, Hayden Birdsong, and Kyle Harrison. However, the Giants still need a dependable fifth starter, as their younger pitching options might not yet be ready for full-time duty.
The Mariners, on the other hand, have a clear need for infield help, particularly at the corners. One potential trade piece for the Giants is first baseman Lamonte Wade Jr. While Wade isn’t a power hitter—his career-high for home runs is 18 in 2021—he is a disciplined batter with a career .351 on-base percentage and an impressive walk rate of over 15% in recent seasons.
A trade for Castillo likely wouldn’t be a straight one-for-one deal. The Giants would probably need to include additional assets, such as a prospect, though first baseman Bryce Eldridge is expected to remain off-limits. Eldridge is viewed as a potential future cornerstone for the Giants and could step into Wade’s role if a trade were completed.
Ultimately, both teams would need to find common ground on the cost, balancing the Giants’ need for an experienced starter with the Mariners’ desire for impactful infield upgrades. Such a move would also require the Giants to be willing to pay a premium in both cash and prospects.
