The New York Yankees entered the offseason facing a series of important decisions, but one area that seemed secure was their starting rotation. While not packed with superstars, the Yankees had a stable group of pitchers. This offseason, they shook things up by trading Nestor Cortes and signing Max Fried, who will join the likes of Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodon, Luis Gil, and Clarke Schmidt. Together, they could form one of the deepest rotations in baseball, with Marcus Stroman and Will Warren also in the mix to fight for innings.
However, the Yankees’ sense of security quickly crumbled as two key rotation pieces are now in question. Luis Gil is out for several months, and Gerrit Cole is dealing with an elbow injury that requires further testing.
With these significant unknowns hanging over their rotation, the Yankees may be forced to explore the trade market for another ace to solidify their pitching staff.
One name that stands out as a potential target is Seattle Mariners ace Luis Castillo. A proven workhorse with a reputation for consistency, Castillo could be the perfect fit for the Yankees’ rotation. The Bronx Bombers had shown interest in Castillo before, when he was with the Cincinnati Reds, and his reliability could be exactly what they need. Acquiring him would likely require giving up top-tier prospects like Spencer Jones, Everson Pereira, or Jorbit Vivas, but if the Yankees are serious about contending, this high-stakes move could be exactly what they need to secure their championship hopes.
