Reds starter Luis Castillo rumored to be drawing trade interest from prospect-loaded Mariners

Add the Seattle Mariners to the list of what's likely to be a dozen or more teams interested in Cincinnati Reds pitcher Luis Castillo.

The latest Reds rumors surrounding La Piedra, courtesy of MLB Network's Jon Morosi, suggest that the M's are interested in acquiring Castillo.

The Mariners would make an interesting and logical trade partner for the Reds. Seattle is in need of starting pitching, and Luis Castillo is among the best young hurlers in the game.

After a rough start to his 2021, Castillo righted the ship and from June 1st through the end of the season, the 28-year-old posted a 2.73 ERA.

In return, the Reds could ask for a treasure trove of prospects. Seattle has one of the best farm systems in the league, with outfield prospect Julio Rodriguez among the best in the game.

While Rodrgiuez may be deemed untouchable by the Mariners' brass, Seattle has other young prospects listed among the Top 100 in baseball per MLB Pipeline.

Outfielder Rodriguez, shortstop Noelvi Marte, pitchers George Kirby and Emerson Hancock, and catcher Harry Ford are all in the Top 100.

The M's also have former Reds farmhand Taylor Trammell and outfielder Jarred Kelenic, both of whom were among the best prospects in baseball heading into last year.

If the Cincinnati Reds are looking for a trade partner with depth in their minor league system, the Seattle Mariners are it.

The Mariners won 90 games last season and will be looking to compete in the AL West next season.

The Reds could trade Luis Castillo, opening up a spot in the rotation for one of their top young prospects, and also get a nice haul from the Mariners.

This offseason is the Reds best chance to trade Luis Castillo and gather some top-level prospects in return. La Piedra's trade value will never be higher than it is right now.

While we're sure to hear more teams emerge as the offseason progresses, the latest Reds rumors involving the Mariners could be very encouraging.