Mariners Eye Willi Castro as Infield Solution
As the Seattle Mariners continue their search for infielders capable of enhancing their offensive lineup, they’ve turned their attention toward a surprising candidate: Chicago Cubs free agent Willi Castro. While the Mariners have been prominently linked to trade targets like St. Louis Cardinals utilityman Brendan Donovan and Arizona Diamondbacks second baseman Ketel Marte, the offseason has entered a lull, leaving many teams, including Seattle, in a holding pattern.
Shifting Focus Amid Trade Rumors
Recent reports suggest that the Mariners are among the leading contenders for Donovan, competing closely with the San Francisco Giants. However, as weeks tick by with little movement, analysts are beginning to explore alternative options. One such alternative, MLB analyst and Mariners reporter Zac Hereth, has pointed to Castro as a more practical fit for Seattle’s needs.
Castro’s Versatility and Potential
Willi Castro, despite a challenging 2024 season, has demonstrated flashes of potential in previous years. Over his MLB career, he holds a .244 batting average, alongside 56 home runs, 228 RBIs, and 775 stolen bases. His versatility is particularly appealing; Castro can adeptly play multiple positions, including second and third base, and has experience at nearly every position on the field except catcher and first base.
Hereth highlighted Castro’s switch-hitting ability and noted his solid performance over the last three seasons. In 358 games with the Minnesota Twins from 2023 to 2025, Castro posted a .250 batting average, a .733 OPS, and 107 extra-base hits, showcasing his capability as a consistent hitter. However, his recent struggles cannot be overlooked. After joining the Cubs, Castro endured a dismal 34-game stretch where he hit just .170 with a .485 OPS and a wRC+ of 40.
A Low-Cost Opportunity for the Mariners
The Mariners’ interest in Castro may stem from the potential for a low-cost, one-year “prove-it” deal. Given Castro’s recent performance, he could be a worthwhile gamble for Seattle, allowing them to enhance their infield depth without significant financial risk. By capitalizing on Castro’s previous successes and providing him with an opportunity to rebound, the Mariners could potentially secure a valuable asset as they aim to bolster their roster for the upcoming season.
