Ryan Mountcastle could be a key piece in a potential trade involving Luis Castillo, as the Orioles look to add an ace-level pitcher. With a surplus of hitters, Baltimore might consider sending Mountcastle to Seattle as part of a deal to relieve Castillo's salary burden, enhancing their pitching rotation.

Ryan Mountcastle is expected to share time at designated hitter and first base alongside Gary Sanchez, highlighting the Orioles' depth at those positions. However, with the addition of Sanchez, questions arise about the necessity of this signing given that the team has limited offensive needs.

Ryan Mountcastle, along with Ryan O'Hearn and newly-signed Gary Sánchez, is expected to share designated hitter duties for the Orioles, indicating the team's depth at the position and limiting opportunities for other potential signings like Randal Grichuk.

Ryan Mountcastle is currently occupying first base for the Orioles, which limits the opportunity for top prospect Coby Mayo, who is Major League-ready but lacks a clear spot in the lineup. Mountcastle's presence at first base is part of the team's broader roster considerations as they look to strengthen their pitching staff.

Ryan Mountcastle has two years remaining before free agency and could be a change-of-scenery candidate after averaging just under 18 home runs and a .745 OPS over the past three seasons. Despite a solid 2021 season, his recent performance has been underwhelming, making him a potential trade target for teams looking to enhance their first base options, particularly the Reds, who play in a hitter-friendly environment.