Breaking: Cubs Acquiring Willi Castro (Update: Twins Receive Two Prospects)
After the Mariners traded for Eugenio Suárez on Wednesday night, it became clear that Matt Shaw was the primary third baseman moving forward. Nonetheless, a roster addition was still needed. Willi Castro had been a name of interest over the past few weeks, and Jed Hoyer has now made it happen.
Willi Castro to Cubs for prospects
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) July 31, 2025
Castro is an ideal offensive addition for the Cubs, posting a 109 wRC+ and a .335 OBP over 86 games with the Minnesota Twins. He has played all around the diamond this season in Minnesota. While second base is his primary position, he has also seen time in both the infield and outfield. The Cubs will likely use him at third base, where he has made 13 appearances in 2025. He can also provide coverage in the outfield when the regular starters need a break.
Two prospects are headed to Minnesota, both from the Knoxville Smokies.
Cubs sending Double-A pitchers Ryan Gallagher and Sam Armstrong back to Minnesota in the deal for Castro.
— Jesse Rogers (@JesseRogersESPN) July 31, 2025
Ryan Gallagher has a 28.2% strikeout rate in Double-A, with a 3.43 ERA. Gallagher was ranked as the 8th best prospect in the Cubs’ system.
Sam Armstrong has a 4.62 ERA in 89.2 innings this year.
