Overshadowed by the recent signing of Alex Bregman and the ensuing Rafael Devers controversy, the Boston Red Sox still face uncertainty in their pitching staff. The team made offseason moves to strengthen the rotation by acquiring former Chicago White Sox left-hander Garrett Crochet and ex-Los Angeles Dodgers All-Star Walker Buehler. However, both pitchers have a history of injuries, and Crochet has only one season of starting experience.
Adding to concerns, Kutter Crawford is dealing with knee discomfort, making it understandable why Red Sox fans might feel uneasy as spring training approaches. With Opening Day just over a month away, Boston should remain active in the trade market if they hope to compete in the challenging AL East. One move worth considering is reaching out to the Seattle Mariners about acquiring starting pitcher Luis Castillo. The 32-year-old, three-time All-Star is a dependable workhorse, boasting a 3.59 ERA and averaging 28 starts per season over the past seven years. Last year, Castillo posted an 11-12 record with a 3.64 ERA over 175.1 innings. While he would demand a steep price in a trade, the investment could pay off.
If the Mariners’ potential return seems underwhelming, it’s important to remember that Boston would be taking on a significant contract. Castillo is in the third year of a five-year, $108 million deal, with a vesting option for 2028. The key piece in the trade would be Garcia, nicknamed “The Password,” who hit .286 with 23 home runs, 66 RBIs, and 17 stolen bases across three minor league levels last season. The 22-year-old must refine his plate discipline after recording 99 strikeouts against 33 walks, but his ability to play all three outfield positions makes him a promising prospect.
Jordan, another potential trade asset, hit .261 with seven home runs, 61 RBIs, and a .693 OPS in 89 games last season. While his numbers haven’t stood out since reaching Double-A in 2023, the 6-foot-1, 220-pound corner infielder offers versatility at first and third base, along with flashes of power that could intrigue Seattle. Meanwhile, Paez might be the hidden gem of the deal. Despite his slender 6-foot-1, 170-pound frame, he recorded an outstanding 113-12 strikeout-to-walk ratio in 96.2 innings. Having pitched both as a starter and out of the bullpen, his elite control makes him an enticing candidate for relief pitching development.
This trade benefits both sides: the Red Sox secure a reliable, top-tier starting pitcher to stabilize their rotation, while the Mariners clear salary space and add three intriguing prospects—one of whom, Garcia, could make his MLB debut sooner rather than later.
