Luis Castillo struggled during a rain-filled game against the Minnesota Twins, allowing seven earned runs by the third inning as the Seattle Mariners lost 11-4, according to an April 28 report. The performance added to concerns about Castillo’s recent form and his role in Seattle’s starting rotation.
The situation matters for the Mariners because Castillo is one of their key pitchers and highest-paid players. His difficulties have contributed to early deficits that are hard for the team’s offense to overcome, raising questions about how the rotation will be managed moving forward.
Castillo said through an interpreter, “Not frustrating at all. I’ve been in this game a long time that some things like this happen. You go through some bad stretches. All I’ve got to do is continue to throw the ball the way I’ve been throwing it, attacking the zone, and I know that results are going to come.”
Manager Dan Wilson addressed potential adjustments as Bryce Miller prepares for a return from injury after strong rehab outings. “He’s a veteran,” Wilson said. “He knows adjustments that are going to be made, and understands that. And I know he continues to work.” With Miller likely increasing his pitch count soon and a six-man rotation unlikely, decisions loom regarding which pitcher might leave the starting group.
Castillo has posted an 8.06 earned run average since opening day outside of his debut start against New York on March 30 when he threw six shutout innings. Opponents have hit him hard with high averages in walks plus hits per inning pitched (WHIP) and on-base plus slugging percentage (OPS). Monday’s wet conditions led not only to diminished velocity but also forced grounds crews into action during play.
Despite these struggles, Castillo remains under contract through next year at $24.15 million annually and has previously shown resilience after rough periods last season as well as being one of Seattle’s most reliable starters since joining in 2022.
