Mariners’ Blockbuster Trade for Luis Castillo: 2 Years Later

Final Thoughts

The Mariners likely have no regrets about making this trade. Luis Castillo has consistently performed as a frontline starter and occasional ace, seamlessly fitting into the roster. He is well-liked, dependable in the rotation, and committed to spending the majority of his career in the Pacific Northwest.

Although Castillo hasn't quite reached true ace status in 2024, his 3.79 ERA and projected three fWAR seasons are impressive. There's also a strong possibility he will have a better second half, as he typically pitches better as the weather warms up.

For the Reds, the hope is that Noelvi Marte develops into a cornerstone of the franchise alongside Elly De La Cruz and that Edwin Arroyo can rediscover his 2022 form after returning next season.

If both prospects reach their potential, the trade could be a win-win for both teams. However, as things stand now, the Mariners seem to be coming out ahead by a significant margin.

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Noelvi Marte

The standout prospect in the return for Castillo, Noelvi Marte, has experienced both highs and lows in Cincinnati. On the positive side, Marte struck out less than 20% of the time and walked over 10% while progressing through the Reds' farm system. He also posted a 120 WRC+ in 35 major league games during 2023.

However, his suspension for PEDs this past March was a significant setback. Marte just returned from his suspension this week and, at only 22 years old, still has the potential to become a star third baseman with 30 home run power. He will need to regain his momentum after missing nearly half a season's worth of at-bats.

Before his call-up to the big leagues at age 21, Marte played just under 90 games above A-ball. His long-term position remains uncertain, as he has never been a plus defender, with third base or left field being the most likely options. Yet, if he continues to hit well and improves his consistency, the Reds could have a formidable middle-of-the-order threat in Marte.

Edwin Arroyo

Since the trade, Edwin Arroyo has seen a significant decline in his prospect status. At the time of the deal, he was considered by some to be the best prospect in the Mariners' system.

Now, Arroyo has fallen off nearly all Top 100 lists. He batted just .249 with a .749 OPS in High-A in 2023 and will miss the entire 2024 season due to a torn labrum in his shoulder.

As a switch-hitter with power and the true ability to play shortstop, Arroyo possesses all the tools of a big league star. He demonstrated this potential in Low-A Modesto, where he posted a .900 OPS with 13 home runs in 87 games. However, after a disappointing 2023 season and his injury in 2024, Arroyo remains far from reaching the majors and may not achieve his full potential. The 2025 season will be crucial for his development.

Levi Stoudt

Entering 2022, Levi Stoudt was gaining momentum as a prospect despite not projecting as a frontline starter. In 2021, he posted a 3.52 ERA in High-A Everett before making three impressive starts in Double-A Arkansas with a 2.53 ERA. He showcased a solid mid-90s fastball and three secondary pitches that caught attention.

Although his 2022 season began poorly with a 5.28 ERA in Double-A, the Reds saw potential in him. After the trade, Stoudt quickly made an impact in Triple-A Louisville, ending the year with a 3.32 ERA across six starts.

However, things took a turn for the worse the following year. Stoudt had a brief stint in the big leagues but struggled, allowing 11 earned runs in 10.1 innings. His Triple-A performance was also disappointing, finishing with a 6.23 ERA and a 1.66 WHIP over 25 appearances (19 starts). His command issues were evident, walking 50 batters in 82.1 innings, resulting in a BB/9 of nearly seven.

Eventually, the Reds designated him for assignment, and the Mariners reclaimed him. Unfortunately, Stoudt faced similar struggles in Tacoma, posting a 6.92 ERA, a 1.73 WHIP, and a 5.2 BB/9.

The Mariners also designated Stoudt for assignment, and he is now with the Orioles organization, currently playing for Double-A Bowie.

Andrew Moore

As a relief pitcher, Andrew Moore's start with the Reds was forgettable. He struggled in Low-A Daytona to end 2022, posting a 12.50 ERA over 9.1 innings.

In 2023, Moore began the season in High-A Dayton but only managed 10 appearances, pitching 14.2 innings due to missing nearly four months. During his rehab, he threw four scoreless innings in the Arizona Complex League and added 7.1 innings in the Arizona Fall League. His ERA in Dayton for the year was 4.34 in this limited sample.

The 2024 season has been more positive for Moore. He posted a 1.38 ERA in Dayton after seven outings, earning a promotion to Double-A Chattanooga, where he has spent most of the year. However, Moore needs to improve his command, as indicated by his 1.71 WHIP over 18 innings. Despite this, his ERA with the Lookouts stands at a respectable 3.86.

Final Thoughts

The Mariners likely have no regrets about making this trade. Luis Castillo has consistently performed as a frontline starter and occasional ace, seamlessly fitting into the roster. He is well-liked, dependable in the rotation, and committed to spending the majority of his career in the Pacific Northwest.

Although Castillo hasn't quite reached true ace status in 2024, his 3.79 ERA and projected three fWAR seasons are impressive. There's also a strong possibility he will have a better second half, as he typically pitches better as the weather warms up.

For the Reds, the hope is that Noelvi Marte develops into a cornerstone of the franchise alongside Elly De La Cruz and that Edwin Arroyo can rediscover his 2022 form after returning next season.

If both prospects reach their potential, the trade could be a win-win for both teams. However, as things stand now, the Mariners seem to be coming out ahead by a significant margin.

Stay ahead of the game and elevate your sports betting experience with SportsGrid.