Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the White Sox trade for Luis Castillo?
The White Sox targeted Castillo primarily for his track record as a workhorse and his postseason experience. Rediscovering his changeup also emerged as a potential key to helping the veteran right-hander return to form.
How bad was Luis Castillo's changeup before his White Sox debut?
Castillo's changeup fell from one of the most devastating pitches in baseball to a liability, posting run values of -5 in 2022, -10 in 2023, and -8 in 2024. By 2025 he had cut usage from 32% down to 11.4%, and opponents were posting a .329 expected batting average against it.
How did Luis Castillo perform in his home debut for the White Sox?
Castillo tossed seven scoreless innings of one-hit ball against the Reds, striking out 10 and generating 22 swings and misses, the most by a White Sox pitcher in a single game this season. He threw 104 pitches and issued just two walks while otherwise staying in complete control.
How good was Luis Castillo's changeup at its peak?
In 2019 Castillo's changeup carried a +28 run value, generated a 47% strikeout rate, and held hitters to a .133 expected batting average, making it one of the most devastating pitches in baseball at the time.
How long is Luis Castillo under contract with the White Sox?
Castillo is under contract through at least the 2027 season, with a $25 million vesting option for 2028 if he reaches 180 innings pitched in 2027.
Mitchell Kaminski
I’m a Bradley University Sports Communication graduate with five years covering the Chicago White Sox and experience broadcasting for ESPN-partnered Bradley Athletics. I’ve worked as a radio play-by-play announcer in Missouri and currently serve as a TV reporter for ABC 17 News in Columbia.
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