Castillo, enjoying his best season in the majors of his young career, including a trip to the All-Star Game in July, was quoted in his hometown newspaper, El Diario Nacional, saying "I'm excited to continue my career as a Spud. This contract will allow me to continue to take care of my family here in Santa Cruz de Mao."
Castillo's extension seemingly pencils him in as the starter at third base beyond 2040, providing what could be a significant upgrade over the last two seasons in Boise:
NAME | YEAR | AB | AVG | OBP | SLG | OPS | WAR |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Pedro Nava | 2039 | 341 | .261 | .320 | .472 | .792 | 1.3 |
António Baca | 2039 | 182 | .170 | .237 | .242 | .479 | -1.3 |
Dan Norman | 2040 | 51 | .196 | .317 | .392 | .709 | 0.1 |
António Baca | 2040 | 250 | .244 | .297 | .380 | .677 | 0.0 |
Pedro Nava | 2040 | 64 | .172 | .197 | .406 | .603 | -0.2 |
Rob Thomas | 2040 | 190 | .205 | .263 | .384 | .648 | -0.8 |
Unfortunately, Castillo didn't factor into the team's long-term plans and was made available on the trade block during the year. Boise, in dire need of a third baseman now, and possibly the future, inquired about obtaining Castillo. A deal was made, sending 17-year-old pitching prospect Mehari Jitu for Castillo. Boise immediately installed the newcomer at the hot corner, where he has slashed .342/.432/.605 in his first 11 games.
"Sancho is a professional hitter and really fills a hole for us at third base," Boise manager Jorge Acevedo told reporters. "His ability to play solid defense and contribute offensively is exactly what we need."