The Minnesota Twins have decided to demote Cody Funderburk to Triple-A due to his 5.18 ERA in 24.1 innings pitched out of the bullpen this season. In his place, they are promoting Diego Castillo, a right-handed reliever with significant MLB experience, from the St. Paul bullpen. However, some logistical issues are delaying the official announcement until Castillo can join the team in person.
There is no move yet because they're not quite sure when he'll arrive, but Diego Castillo is on the way to join the #MNTwins. He has a 2.50 ERA and 22 strikeouts in 18 innings at Triple A.
— DanHayesMLB (@DanHayesMLB) May 27, 2024
Castillo has been performing exceptionally well for the St. Paul team this season, with a 2.50 ERA and 1.06 WHIP in 18 innings, striking out 22 batters and walking only 6. Despite a rough patch in the 2023 season, which saw him relegated to the minor leagues, Castillo boasts impressive career statistics, including a 3.22 ERA, 128 ERA+, 1.099 WHIP, and 3.81 FIP over 268 MLB innings.
Posting Random 2021-2023 Mariners highlights until Opening Day — Day 18:
Diego Castillo dominates the A's in a one run game in the 8th inning with 3 strikeouts.
May 23rd, 2022. pic.twitter.com/sOsABoDnXs
— Switch (@IISwitchII) October 24, 2023
Although he faced challenges in 2022 and 2023, including issues with advanced metrics and an adjustment to a pitch clock, Castillo seems to have overcome these obstacles. If he can return to his previous form, he could significantly strengthen the Twins’ bullpen, a crucial area for improvement as they strive to compete in the highly competitive AL Central division. Before joining the Twins organization, Castillo spent time with the Rays and the Mariners.
Meet Seattle Mariners’ Diego Castillo AKA the Human Rain Delay pic.twitter.com/yc6VZNzFUv
— Calico Joe (@CalicoJoeMLB) June 12, 2022
