In a move that adds depth to their bullpen, the New York Mets have acquired left-handed reliever José Castillo from the Arizona Diamondbacks. The trade, announced late Thursday, sees the Mets sending cash considerations to Arizona in exchange for the 28-year-old southpaw, who had been pitching at Triple-A Reno before the deal.
For the Mets, the trade is a low-risk, potentially high-reward acquisition. Castillo brings major league experience and a power left-handed arm to a team in need of bullpen reinforcements. With Brooks Raley and Josh Walker both nursing injuries, and the Mets’ bullpen having struggled with consistency in 2025, Castillo could see action relatively soon if he impresses in the minors.
Castillo made his MLB debut with the San Diego Padres in 2018, flashing dominant stuff with 52 strikeouts in 38.1 innings that year. However, injuries, including a lat strain and Tommy John surgery, limited his availability over the next several seasons. After bouncing between the Padres and Marlins organizations, Castillo signed a minor league deal with the Diamondbacks in early 2024.
In Triple-A this year, Castillo posted a 3.86 ERA over 25 appearances, striking out 34 batters in 28 innings while walking just nine. Scouts have noted that his fastball velocity is back in the mid-90s, and his sweeping slider remains a weapon against left-handed hitters.
For Arizona, the move clears a roster spot and creates additional financial flexibility. The Diamondbacks have a crowded bullpen picture and have been leaning on younger arms in 2025, making Castillo expendable despite his decent showing in Reno.
This trade may not make headlines like a blockbuster deal, but for the Mets, it’s a calculated depth addition with potential upside. If Castillo can stay healthy and regain even a glimpse of his 2018 form, he could become a valuable asset in the second half of the season.
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