Rockies Sign Right-Hander Diego Castillo to Minor League Contract
The Colorado Rockies have signed right-hander Diego Castillo to a minor league contract, according to Aram Leighton of Just Baseball Media. As part of the agreement, Castillo, who turns 31 next month, has been invited to join the Rockies’ major league spring camp.
Castillo’s Career
Castillo is best known for his work as a regular in the Rays and Mariners bullpens from 2018-2022, where he posted a 3.12 ERA, 28.1% strikeout rate, 50.7% groundball rate, and 50.7 walk rate (8.9%). However, his performance declined in 2023, and he was cut from the Mariners’ 40-man roster in early May. Castillo spent the remainder of the season in Triple-A before being selected as a free agent at the end of the season.
Castillo’s Journey
Before joining the Rockies, Castillo signed minor league contracts with the Rangers and Twins. He was released by the Rangers at the end of spring training and the Twins designated him for assignment twice, taking him off the 40-man roster. Castillo appeared in 10 games for the Twins, posting a 2.70 ERA in 10 innings.
Decline in Performance
Castillo’s control issues are a major reason behind his decline in performance. His walk rate has increased to 14.92% in 84 1/3 innings of Triple-A ball over the past two seasons and 18 2/3 in his brief MLB sample size. Among them, the walk rate is as high as 17.9%. A drop in velocity could also be part of the reason why Castillo struggled in 2023, although his fastball velocity increased from 93.8 mph in 2023 to 95.9 mph in 2024.
Reason for Signing
While Castillo’s prime years are behind him, it makes sense that the Rockies would still want to try out the veteran right-hander. If Castillo can earn himself a spot on Colorado’s active roster, his ability to keep the ball on the ground could be useful in the thin air at Coors Field.
Conclusion
The Rockies’ signing of Diego Castillo is a low-risk move that could pay off if he can regain some of his previous form. With his experience in the big leagues and ability to keep the ball on the ground, Castillo could be a valuable addition to the Rockies’ bullpen. However, his control issues will need to be addressed if he wants to have a successful season.
FAQ
Q: What is Diego Castillo’s background?
A: Diego Castillo is a right-handed pitcher who has played for the Rays and Mariners from 2018-2022.
Q: What is Castillo’s career statistics?
A: Castillo has a 3.12 ERA, 28.1% strikeout rate, 50.7% groundball rate, and 50.7 walk rate (8.9%) in his career.
Q: Why was Castillo released by the Mariners and Twins?
A: Castillo was released by the Mariners due to a poor start in 2023, and by the Twins due to his control issues and being designated for assignment twice.
Q: Why did the Rockies sign Castillo?
A: The Rockies signed Castillo due to his experience in the big leagues and ability to keep the ball on the ground, which could be useful in the thin air at Coors Field.
Q: Can Castillo still have a successful season?
A: Yes, if Castillo can address his control issues and regain some of his previous form, he could be a valuable addition to the Rockies’ bullpen.
