The Baltimore Orioles have lost their ace Corbin Burnes to the Arizona Diamondbacks, who signed him for six years and $210 million. While the Orioles acquired pitchers Tomoyuki Sugano and Charlie Morton, their rotation remains a concern. Fangraphs projects a mere 2.0 fWAR for their rotation, the lowest among playoff contenders. Eno Sarris noted the Orioles' rotation is ranked 25th in baseball, with Sugano's impact yet to be determined. Both Morton, now over 40, and Sugano, an unproven commodity in MLB, may not significantly enhance the rotation.

Consequently, the team is reportedly exploring trades for starting pitchers, with Luis Castillo from the Seattle Mariners as a potential target. A successful acquisition could strengthen their rotation and alleviate pressure on the offense, which may need to score heavily next season. However, the overall construction of the roster raises questions about their ability to compete effectively.

The Baltimore Orioles have made a significant addition to their pitching staff by signing Japanese star Tomoyuki Sugano to a one-year, $13 million contract. At 35, Sugano may not be the most sought-after player, but his impressive resume includes two Sawamura Awards and two Central League MVPs.

MLB insider Ken Rosenthal noted that while Sugano is a valuable acquisition, the Orioles are still in search of a top-tier starter. The team aims to secure two pitchers this offseason, with Sugano seen as a solid second option. The Orioles are also exploring the possibility of bringing back Corbin Burnes or acquiring other notable pitchers like Dylan Cease or Luis Castillo to enhance their rotation.

The Seattle Mariners are heating up their offseason activities as they pursue Roki Sasaki while navigating trade talks involving veteran pitcher Luis Castillo. Reports indicate that the Mariners and Boston Red Sox have discussed a potential trade that would send Castillo to Boston in exchange for first baseman Triston Casas, although those talks have not progressed.

Castillo, who is 32 and has a no-trade clause, is the highest-paid pitcher on the Mariners' roster and had a solid season with a 3.64 ERA and 175 strikeouts. Seattle's President of Baseball Operations, Jerry Dipoto, has emphasized that trading a pitcher is a last resort, but Castillo's age and salary make him a likely candidate if a trade does occur.

The Seattle Mariners are open to trade discussions regarding All-Star pitcher Luis Castillo, despite previous statements from the team's President of Baseball Operations, Jerry Dipoto, labeling such a move as 'Plan Z.' Castillo has been a key player in the Mariners' rotation, boasting a solid performance in the 2023 season with an 11-12 record and a 3.64 ERA.

While the Mariners value Castillo's contributions, trading him could provide financial flexibility to address other team needs. With a contract of $24 million per year for the next three seasons, moving Castillo might allow the Mariners to pursue upgrades at second or third base. Potential trade targets from the Boston Red Sox could include first baseman Triston Casas and top prospects Marcelo Mayer and Roman Anthony.

As the winter meetings approach, the situation may evolve quickly, especially considering Castillo's no-trade clause.

As the Seattle Mariners approach the 2025 offseason, expectations are low for significant free-agent acquisitions. Owner John Stanton's comments suggest a continuation of their cautious spending approach, despite the availability of stars like Alex Bregman and Juan Soto.

Fans are speculating about potential trades, particularly involving pitcher Luis Castillo, who has a hefty contract and a no-trade clause. Suggestions include trading Castillo for younger infielders like Mark Vientos or Jordan Westburg, but both teams may be reluctant to part with their promising players.

While a trade could address Seattle's needs, it would require a substantial package, likely including top prospects like Harry Ford and Michael Arroyo. However, the Mariners' history of frugality may hinder their ability to make a blockbuster move, leaving fans uncertain about the team's direction this offseason.