After a month of July where only two White Sox starters managed to complete six full innings, Chris Getz pulled off a move that will hopefully bolster the rotation while improving the bullpen, both through less work and by subtraction. The White Sox acquired right-handed starter Luis Castillo from the Mariners in exchange for reliever Seranthony Domínguez, catching prospect Boston Smith, and outfielder Nolan Jones. Castillo, 33, is signed through 2027 for $22.75 million with a vesting option for $25 million in 2028. A three-time All-Star, Castillo has struggled this year, with a career-worst 5.06 ERA.
Dominguez, signed this off-season, has struggled, but has been better as of late in low leverage situations. Smith, 23, was acquired from the Nationals this spring and has slashed a combined .291/.448/.589 with 22 home runs across three minor league levels this season. Jones, 28, was acquired from the Guardians in June and is basically organization filler at this point.
With the acquisition, Castillo will move into the rotation with Erick Fedde moving to the bullpen. Hopefully the two will take pressure off of the rest of the bullpen innings-wise and Castillo’s post-season experience will benefit the entire team come October.
