Seattle Mariners Still in the Mix for Rusney Castillo

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According to Jon Heyman at CBSSports.com, the Seattle Mariners are one of the half-dozen teams seen as serious players for 27-year old Cuban defector Rusney Castillo.

Heyman writes that the Mariners, Red Sox, Tigers, Phillies, Yankees, and Cubs are the teams in on the Cuban outfielder.

A deal could come sooner than later, seeing as Castillo could potentially bolster a playoff roster when the rosters expand to 40 players on September 1st. Moreover, he has potential to fit in as a corner outfielder starter or even a 4th outfielder in a rotation next season.

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Heyman talks a lot about the Mariners interests for two reasons. First and foremost, the Mariners need outfielders. Yes, Austin Jackson is on contract through the 2015 season. But who else is there? Dustin Ackley hasn’t proven himself more than extended periods of extremely hot hitting. Chris Denorfia is a free agent come season’s end. Michael Saunders is oft-injured, Logan Morrison is a first baseman, and it should be Endy Chavez‘s last go around. The younger guys– like James JonesStefen Romero, and Abraham Almonte (traded to San Diego)– haven’t quite gelled at the Major League level yet.

So Castillo could be getting a considerable offer from the Mariners. Heyman says that estimates on a contract have ranged from $35 million to $55 million, though in recent years estimates have been exceeded by the likes of Yoenis CespedesJose Abreu, and Yasiel Puig.

The Mariners are also mentioned because Castillo is represented by Roc Nation. Yes, the Roc Nation that is run by Jay-Z and represents our All-Star second baseman Robinson Cano. So maybe that entices the young man to the Pacific Northwest.

If the price is right, would this be a good signing for the Mariners for this season and beyond? Share your comments, and check in at Sodo Mojo for updates on Castillo and all things Mariners.