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This Trade Between Astros and Reds for Luis Castillo Could Actually Work

By Scott Rogust

Milwaukee Brewers v Cincinnati Reds
Milwaukee Brewers v Cincinnati Reds / Joe Robbins/Getty Images

Putting aside the recent electronic sign-stealing investigation, the Houston Astros are looking to build upon an AL Pennant-winning season, but will be losing talent heading into 2020. The biggest name on the list is Gerrit Cole, who's set to become the highest-paid pitcher in MLB history.

Houston still has Justin Verlander and Zack Greinke to man the starting rotation, but you better believe they'll be looking for another arm to join those two aces.

How about acquiring a young pitcher in Luis Castillo from the Cincinnati Reds, Astros fans?

Luis Castillo Contract

The 26-year-old's contract is a godsend for teams like the Astros, who won't have all the money in the world to spend in free agency. Castillo has three years of arbitration and won't hit free agency until the conclusion of the 2023 season.

Given that, the Reds will look to gain as many top prospects as possible.

Trade Options

So, how about the Astros sending over No. 1 prospect Forrest Whitley, catcher Garrett Stubbs, and shortstop Grae Kessinger to the Reds?

Whitley is the cream of the crop in terms of pitching prospects, as he was rated the best high school pitcher heading into the 2016 MLB Draft. While his numbers have not been good, as evidenced by his 7.99 cumulative ERA throughout the minors, he still has the potential to be a stud ace in the majors, especially after his impressive Arizona Fall League performance.

Kessinger, ranked 12th in the Astros pipeline, is a gamer who can play both shortstop and second base. Stubbs (14th in Houston farm system) flashes a strong arm behind the plate and can play defense.

Of course, moving Whitley could be a no-go for the Astros. If that's the case, the team could offer infielder Freudis Nova (No. 2 prospect) and right-handed pitcher Bryan Abreu (No. 4 prospect).

The Houston Astros have shown they are willing to be aggressive on the trade market with their acquisitions in recent years. With the likes of Carlos Correa and George Springer due for new contracts, the team should look at a cheap option like Luis Castillo on the trade market.