MLB writer declares Mariners 3x All-Star's trade stock has gone down

The Seattle Mariners are off to a strong start in 2025. At 14-11, they are tied for the top spot in the American League West with the Texas Rangers. They've also won back-to-back games and are 7-3 in their last 10 games.

Their offense has let them down over the past several years despite a great pitching staff, but right now they are performing well and could be the team to beat in the AL West.

The Mariners did shop right-hander Luis Castillo last offseason, though they did not find a suitable offer for him. A trade is unlikely with Seattle playing well.

It's not impossible though, but Zachary D. Rymer of Bleacher Report believes his stock has taken a hit.

"He showed signs of being past his prime in 2024, and they're back in 2025. He's down to the 61st percentile with his fastball velocity, and that is one of his more flattering metrics. Suffice it to say he's not missing many bats and getting hit hard," Rymer wrote.

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The 32-year-old right-hander is off to a bit of a rough start in 2025. He's 2-2 in his first five starts but has a 4.44 ERA. In 2024, he had a 3.64 ERA in 33 starts.

But if his struggles continue, it would be hard to imagine Seattle trading him, even if they fall out of contention. If he turns things around, he could be worth a big return package at the trade deadline that could help Seattle improve its offense.

He hasn't started off 2025 on a good note though, and as Rymer noted, that could hurt his stock if the Mariners decide to shop him again and the deadline.

It will be interesting to see where things stand when the deadline rolls around in late July.

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