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Cubs Acquire Twins' Versatile All-Star Willi Castro at Trade Deadline

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Sterling Bennett | Last updated Jul 31, 2025 7:38 PM ET

After missing out on Eugenio Suarez, the Chicago Cubs did not have many options remaining on the trade market. However, just before the deadline buzzer, they have found their new offensive acquisition.

According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, the Cubs are acquiring Willi Castro from the Minnesota Twins in exchange for Double-A pitching prospects Ryan Gallagher (#8) and Sam Armstrong (not ranked inside MLB.com’s Top 30).

Although Castro will not fill the slugger role that Suarez would have, the veteran utility man can play all over the field and offer Craig Counsell much-needed defensive versatility. Through his seven-year career, Castro has played every position other than catcher. And yes, that includes six career relief appearances to a 5.79 ERA.

Jokes aside, Castro is slashing .245/.335/.407 with 10 home runs and 27 RBIs. He can serve as an upgrade over rookie Matt Shaw at third base. However, Shaw has been hitting the cover off the ball with a .359 batting average, four home runs, and 10 RBIs since July 18. A more appropriate position for Castro is in left field with Ian Happ on the injured list.

Castro, a former All-Star, has his best offensive output playing in left field. Through 145 games at the position, the 28-year-old has 10 career home runs, 34 RBIs, and a .274 batting average, including a .314 batting average this season. He may not be able to mash 30 home runs in a season, but Castro is a reliable veteran who should help Chicago in their quest to win the NL Central.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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