In a strategic move to bolster their infield depth, the New York Mets have signed utility infielder Diego A. Castillo to a minor league contract, assigning him to Triple-A Syracuse. This acquisition comes as the team prepares for the final stretch of spring training, aiming to reinforce their roster ahead of the 2025 season.
Diego Castillo, 27, brings versatility and experience to the Mets’ organization. In 2024, he appeared in four major league games with the Minnesota Twins, recording a .333 batting average (2-for-6) with a double, two walks, and a strikeout over eight plate appearances. At the Triple-A level, Castillo posted a solid .261/.364/.397 slash line, contributing nine home runs, 54 RBIs, and 13 stolen bases across 113 games.
Originally signed as an international free agent by the New York Yankees, Castillo’s journey has seen him traverse multiple organizations. Notably, he was part of the 2021 trade that sent current Mets Opening Day starter Clay Holmes to the Yankees. Castillo made his MLB debut with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2022, where he showcased his power potential by hitting 11 home runs and driving in 29 RBIs over 96 games, despite a modest .206 batting average.
Defensively, Castillo’s adaptability is a significant asset. Throughout his minor league career, he has demonstrated the ability to play multiple positions, including shortstop, second base, third base, first base, and both corner outfield spots. This flexibility provides the Mets with valuable options, especially considering recent injuries within their infield. Utilityman Nick Madrigal underwent season-ending shoulder surgery, and starting second baseman Jeff McNeil is expected to begin the regular season on the injured list due to a shoulder strain. Additionally, top prospect Ronny Mauricio is still recovering from multiple knee surgeries and is not yet ready for game action.
The Mets’ infield depth has been further tested with these injuries, making Castillo’s addition timely. Players like Brett Baty and Luisangel Acuña, initially competing for bench spots, are now top candidates for early-season starts. The presence of Castillo offers the team additional flexibility, ensuring that they have capable options to cover multiple positions if further injuries arise.
In addition to Castillo, the Mets have made other moves to strengthen their infield depth. They signed veteran infielder Jared Young to a one-year contract. Young, a 29-year-old Canadian, has experience at first base and has played every position in the minors except catcher and center field. His versatility and left-handed bat provide the Mets with additional options off the bench.
Furthermore, the Mets signed 27-year-old second baseman Nick Madrigal to a one-year contract earlier in the offseason. Madrigal, known for his contact-hitting ability and defensive versatility at both second and third base, offers the Mets a reliable option in the infield. Despite recent performance dips, his disciplined approach at the plate and ability to put the ball in play could prove valuable as the team navigates the challenges of the upcoming season.
The Mets’ focus on enhancing their infield depth is part of a broader strategy to build a robust and versatile roster capable of competing at the highest level. The signing of power-hitting infielder Mark Vientos exemplifies this approach. Vientos, 24, has been recognized for his significant power potential and strong arm, making him a valuable asset at third base. After being recalled from Triple-A Syracuse, Vientos has demonstrated his offensive capabilities, including a walk-off home run against the St. Louis Cardinals on April 28, 2024. His continued development and performance will be crucial for the Mets as they aim to strengthen their lineup.
The Mets have also explored adding established power hitters to their roster. Reports indicate that the team checked in on All-Star designated hitter Jorge Soler, known for his formidable power and experience. Soler’s addition would provide a significant boost to the Mets’ lineup, offering protection for key hitters like Pete Alonso and Francisco Lindor. However, it remains unclear if the Mets are still pursuing Soler at this time.
As the Mets continue to navigate the challenges of the 2025 season, their proactive approach to roster management reflects a commitment to depth and versatility. The additions of Castillo, Young, Madrigal, and the development of players like Vientos underscore the organization’s dedication to building a competitive and resilient team. Fans can look forward to seeing how these strategic moves translate on the field as the Mets strive for success in the highly competitive National League East.
## MLB Schedule
– Mets @ Astros on Friday, Mar 28, 2025 at 05:10 PM PDT
– Mets @ Astros on Saturday, Mar 29, 2025 at 04:15 PM PDT
– Mets @ Marlins on Monday, Mar 31, 2025 at 03:40 PM PDT
– Mets @ Marlins on Tuesday, Apr 01, 2025 at 03:40 PM PDT
– Mets @ Marlins on Wednesday, Apr 02, 2025 at 01:40 PM PDT
– Blue Jays @ Mets on Friday, Apr 04, 2025 at 12:10 PM PDT
– Blue Jays @ Mets on Saturday, Apr 05, 2025 at 04:10 PM PDT
– Blue Jays @ Mets on Sunday, Apr 06, 2025 at 10:40 AM PDT
– Marlins @ Mets on Monday, Apr 07, 2025 at 04:10 PM PDT
– Marlins @ Mets on Tuesday, Apr 08, 2025 at 04:10 PM PDT
– Marlins @ Mets on Wednesday, Apr 09, 2025 at 10:10 AM PDT
– Mets @ Athletics on Friday, Apr 11, 2025 at 07:05 PM PDT
– Mets @ Athletics on Saturday, Apr 12, 2025 at 01:05 PM PDT
– Mets @ Athletics on Sunday, Apr 13, 2025 at 01:05 PM PDT
– Mets @ Twins on Monday, Apr 14, 2025 at 04:40 PM PDT
– Mets @ Twins on Tuesday, Apr 15, 2025 at 04:40 PM PDT
– Mets @ Twins on Wednesday, Apr 16, 2025 at 10:10 AM PDT
– Cardinals @ Mets on Thursday, Apr 17, 2025 at 04:10 PM PDT
– Cardinals @ Mets on Friday, Apr 18, 2025 at 04:10 PM PDT
– Cardinals @ Mets on Saturday, Apr 19, 2025 at 01:05 PM PDT
