The Cincinnati Reds are clearly looking to sell anything that is not nailed down at this point in time. Tucker Barnhart was dealt away for virtually nothing, Wade Miley was placed on waivers, and the payroll purge shows no signs of stopping any time soon.
As the Reds appear set to enter the rebuilding process, an intriguing name has come up in rumors. For the second consecutive offseason, Luis Castillo is available for the right price.
Trade market news: #Reds RHP Luis Castillo, who had a 2.73 ERA from June 1 onward, already is drawing interest from teams across @MLB. The Reds are willing to engage in talks on the 28-year-old, who will be eligible for free agency after ‘23. @MLBNetwork
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) November 8, 2021
Cincinnati Reds could kickstart rebuild with Luis Castillo trade
Castillo had a decent season when looking at his overall numbers. He posted a 3.98 ERA and a 1.364 WHiP over his 187.2 innings, striking out 192 batters with 75 walks. However, those numbers were skewed by an awful start to the year where he had a 7.22 ERA and a 1.777 WHiP through the end of May.
That production after June 1, and his remaining two years of team control, should make Castillo a hot target on the trade market. He should also be relatively inexpensive as well, as he is projected to make just under $8 million in arbitration this year.
A trade for Castillo could be a major boost to the Reds’ efforts to rebuild. Chances are, they would be looking for a return similar to what the Twins received for Jose Berrios – a pair of top 100 prospects as well as other intriguing players.
A team looking to contend in 2022 may be willing to pay that price. Castillo has displayed the potential to be a top of the rotation arm, and has looked the part of a staff ace when he has been on. He could make a difference, but he will be costly in terms of prospects.
The Cincinnati Reds are reportedly willing to trade Luis Castillo. If he does get traded, a potential deal could hasten the rebuilding process.