The Phillies have acquired infielder/outfielder Diego Castillo from the Yankees through waivers, according to announcements from both teams. The Yankees had designated him for assignment a week ago. With this move, the Phillies now have a complete 40-man roster.
Castillo, 26, spent the 2023 season with the Diamondbacks but has been on a constant rotation this year. Since the start of 2024, he has been claimed by the Mets, Yankees, and now the Phillies. This suggests that he possesses some interesting qualities that make him attractive to teams, although not enough to secure a permanent spot on a roster.
He has shown a decent ability to get on base, although he lacks power. Additionally, he has some speed, defensive versatility, and one remaining option year. During his time with the Diamondbacks in 2023, he only played in one major league game but had 556 plate appearances at the Triple-A level. He had a walk rate of 17.4% and a strikeout rate of 14.2%. Despite hitting only three home runs, his batting line of .313/.431/.410 resulted in a wRC+ of 117, even in the hitter-friendly Pacific Coast League.
He also stole 13 bases and played multiple positions, including the three infield positions on the left side of first base, as well as left field. In previous seasons, he has also played first base and right field, and has even made a few appearances as a relief pitcher.
More information will be provided in the future.