The Baltimore Orioles entered the offseason with a significant gap in their starting rotation. Last year, they bolstered their pitching staff by acquiring Corbin Burnes from the Milwaukee Brewers. After an outstanding season with Baltimore, Burnes hit free agency this offseason and opted to sign a massive contract with the Arizona Diamondbacks, leaving the Orioles without their ace.
Adding to their concerns, pitcher Grayson Rodriguez is set to miss time due to an injury. The right-hander is dealing with soreness in the back of his elbow and will start the 2025 season on the injured list.
With these setbacks, Baltimore now has a prime opportunity to pursue a blockbuster trade with the Seattle Mariners for their ace, Luis Castillo. The 32-year-old right-hander is entering the third season of a five-year deal worth over $100 million.
This Orioles-Mariners trade would help Baltimore survive after Grayson Rodriguez injury
A potential trade for a star pitcher like Luis Castillo would likely center around former top prospect Heston Kjerstad. The young outfielder faces a crowded depth chart in Baltimore, making him a prime trade candidate.
Proposed Trade
Baltimore Orioles Receive:
- RHP Luis Castillo
Seattle Mariners Receive:
- OF Heston Kjerstad
- OF Dylan Beavers
- C/1B Creed Willems
Kjerstad, 26, has shown impressive potential in his brief time in the majors. The left-handed hitter boasts a smooth swing and disciplined approach at the plate, allowing him to consistently make quality contact. However, given Baltimore’s wealth of outfield talent at both the major and minor league levels, finding him regular playing time could be a challenge.
Beavers, 23, has demonstrated considerable upside early in his professional career. Though not as polished as Kjerstad, the Mariners wouldn’t need him to contribute immediately. With time to develop, the young outfielder could grow into a key piece of Seattle’s future lineup.
Willems, 21, possesses a powerful bat and a strong arm but remains a work in progress. His ability to hit home runs at any moment makes him an intriguing prospect, and with further development, he could become a valuable asset in any team’s farm system.
This trade could be mutually beneficial. The Mariners currently have six major-league-caliber starting pitchers but only five rotation spots, along with top pitching prospects nearing MLB readiness. By acquiring three promising position player prospects, Seattle could strengthen its future lineup while Baltimore lands a much-needed ace for its rotation.
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