The Colorado Rockies have announced a new two-year agreement with utility player Willi Castro. The deal is reportedly worth $12.8 million, according to sources.
Willi Castro’s Background and Recent Performance
Castro, who turns 29 in April, has established himself as a versatile player over the past few seasons. He spent time with several teams, including the Detroit Tigers and Minnesota Twins, demonstrating strong capabilities in multiple positions.
Strong Seasons Leading Up to the Agreement
- Castro was non-tendered by the Tigers after the 2022 season.
- He signed a minor league deal with the Twins ahead of the 2023 season.
- He had a standout performance in 2023, participating in 124 games.
- Managed to hit nine home runs and achieved an on-base percentage of .339.
- Averaged a 107 wRC+, indicating slightly above-average hitting abilities.
- Stole 33 bases in 38 attempts, reflecting excellent speed and base-running skills.
Defensively, Castro showcased his versatility by playing in all three outfield positions and infield spots left of first base. His defensive skills earned him positive evaluations across various roles.
Challenges and Trades
In 2024, Castro’s performance remained steady, with a batting average of .247 and a wRC+ of 106. He added 14 stolen bases to his record.
However, after being traded to the Chicago Cubs mid-season, Castro’s performance suffered significantly. He posted a disappointing .170 batting average with a wRC+ of just 40 in limited appearances.
Future Implications for the Rockies
With Castro’s two-year deal, the Rockies aim to enhance their roster depth with a player known for versatility. As they finalize this contract, the team will need to make a corresponding move to accommodate the addition of Castro.
