This trade idea with the Reds involving Jeff McNeil deserves a big fat “no thank you”

Is Reds pitcher Luis Castillo worth this large haul?

Getting traded is nothing new for Castillo. He was dealt in December 2014, July 2016, August 2016, and finally in January of 2017 before even making his major league debut. Now 29, he’s coming off of a unique season. Castillo led the league with 16 losses, 33 games started, and 75 walks. Despite this, he still had a solid 3.98 ERA and 120 ERA+. In a season where many players battled injuries, games played mattered a whole lot more.

Through 123 career starts dating back to 2017, Castillo is now 40-49 with a 3.72 ERA. He hasn’t had any truly remarkable season but his ability to stay healthy and make consistent starts makes him an intriguing option for a team like the Mets to explore. They dealt with their own injuries last year. Like every ball club, sore shoulders and elbows have led to their downfall many times.

Castillo’s two years of control make him better than a rental. He would quickly become an extension candidate as long as all goes well in year one.

There’s a lot to like about Castillo. So why not trade McNeil, Baty, Ginn, and Santos for him? It’s the price you have to pay in order to get a desirable starting pitcher back in any move.