Luis Castillo Trade Rumors: Mariners open to dealing ace for offensive upgrades amidst budget constraints

It has been a crazy offseason in Major League Baseball, but there are still some big moves to be made. One MLB reporter believes Seattle Mariners ace, Luis Castillo, could be on the move.

Getting into specifics of a potential trade is not easy, especially since it's unclear what teams might be looking to add Castillo. If the asking price is right, Castillo is definitely someone that would be coveted by other clubs.

"One of the Very Best Arms in the American League"

MLB Network's Jon Morosi was the first to throw out this rumor, and he did so while giving Castillo plenty of praise. Morosi called Castillo one of the best arms in the American League, and the numbers have backed that up.

Castillo made 30 starts a season ago and posted a 3.64 ERA. Even though his win-loss record was underwhelming at 11-12, the overall numbers showed a pitcher who deserved better. The Mariners went out and targeted Castillo a few seasons ago, and he has delivered as the leader of their staff.

Specific Help Needed From Mariners

The Mariners are not going to trade Castilly away for nothing as they are still in a place to compete in the American League West. Seattle would obviously lose out on some great pitching if it traded Castillo, but the Mariners need of some offense.

Contracts continue to grow when it comes to Major League Baseball, and the Mariners are not in a position to compete in terms of throwing money around. Castillo isn't costing the Mariners a ton of money yet, but they don't have enough money to sign players to improve the overall roster.

The Mariners would be looking to move Castillo for a package of young, talented, offensive players, and they should be able to land a great package should they make the pitchers available. Seattle has reportedly been talking with the Chicago Cubs on a deal, but nothing appears imminent at this time.