Could Luis Castillo Be the Solution to the Orioles’ Rotation Woes?

The Baltimore Orioles are entering the offseason with a glaring hole in their starting rotation following the departure of Corbin Burnes. Despite being given the financial “green light” by ownership, general manager Mike Elias has opted to remain cautious in free agency, leaving fans wondering if the team will make a significant move to bolster its pitching staff.

Enter Luis Castillo, the Seattle Mariners’ veteran right-hander, who could be the perfect fit for an Orioles team looking to stay competitive in the loaded American League. According to CBS Sports’ Mike Axisa, the Orioles are considered a prime trade partner for Castillo, as the Mariners appear willing to entertain offers for the 30-year-old hurler.

Castillo’s Credentials

Castillo is no stranger to carrying a rotation. The eight-year MLB veteran boasts a career ERA of 3.56 with 1,331 strikeouts and has consistently delivered as a reliable starter. Since his debut in 2017, he has averaged over 26 starts per season, proving both his durability and effectiveness on the mound.

The former ace of both the Reds and Mariners is currently in the middle of a five-year, $108 million contract, set to pay him $24–$25 million annually through 2027, with a vesting option for 2028. In today’s market, that price tag represents good value for a starter of Castillo’s caliber, even if his days as a true “ace” may be behind him.

Why Castillo Fits Baltimore

For the Orioles, Castillo represents a stable, veteran presence that could help anchor a rotation in need of reinforcements. With Burnes gone, Baltimore’s starting staff lacks the top-end reliability needed to contend deep into October. Castillo might not be Burnes, but he’s a proven workhorse who could provide the kind of consistency and leadership the Orioles need.

Furthermore, the Mariners are in a position to part ways with Castillo as they focus on building around a rotation of young arms. This creates a natural trade match for Baltimore, who has both the farm system depth and the payroll flexibility to make a deal work.

What Would It Take?

The Orioles would likely need to part with some of their highly-regarded prospects to acquire Castillo. Baltimore boasts one of the top farm systems in baseball, so they are well-equipped to put together an enticing package. The key for Elias will be balancing the team’s long-term future with the immediate need for a competitive rotation.

A Risk Worth Taking

While Castillo may no longer be the dominant ace he once was, his addition could significantly stabilize an Orioles rotation that was rocked by the loss of Burnes. His durability and track record make him a relatively low-risk acquisition, especially compared to the uncertainty that comes with relying solely on young, unproven arms.

If Baltimore truly wants to contend in 2025, bringing in a pitcher like Castillo could be the kind of bold move that pushes them over the edge. For now, all eyes are on Mike Elias to see if he’ll take the leap.