CHICAGO – To put it in basketball terms, Cubs manager Craig Counsell described new acquisition Willi Castro as being essentially the equivalent of a sixth man for his ballclub. The utility man could come off the bench, while also playing a crucial role that includes regular playing time.
With a starting lineup that rarely changes, Counsell believes Castro – reeled in at the Trade Deadline from the Twins – is precisely the type of player the North Siders need for the season’s stretch run. Whether considering matchups or players in need of rest, Counsell can slot Castro into the mix in a variety of ways.
“We’ve asked a lot of those guys,” Counsell said of his regulars. “They’ve been healthy. We’ve been fortunate there. Willi’s a really good player and he has a skill set that’s kind of rare in this league, in that he’s capable of playing infield and outfield and get regular at-bats because he’s a switch-hitter. It covers us in a lot of places.”
Castro’s best positions via the metrics are second base and left field, but he can offer depth at every infield and outfield spot. He also offers plus speed (Castro stole 33 bases in ‘23), solid on-base ability and occasional offensive pop. And while his career splits are relatively even, Castro has hit lefties especially well (132 wRC+) this season.
“We’re not going to give guys off-days that don’t need them, in our eyes,” Counsell said. “We’re going to do it when we feel like it’s helpful. But I also think I do want to get Willi involved. He’s been playing a lot and I want to keep him playing, and I think that’s important.”
Counsell offered an early glimpse into how Castro will be utilized over the weekend against the Orioles.
On Saturday, shortstop Dansby Swanson was given a rare day off – he leads the Cubs in games started and is second on the team to Pete Crow-Armstrong in innings played – and second baseman Nico Hoerner moved to short for the game. Castro got the start at second base on Saturday and then spelled Matt Shaw as the starting third baseman on Sunday.
During his Cubs debut on Saturday, Castro had a pair of hits – including a triple – and made a handful of strong plays in the field.
“I know his versatility has been well covered, but that’s real,” Hoerner said. “It’s incredibly helpful for the group down the stretch as guys inevitably deal with little things and need days. He’s a quality starting player at a bunch of different places. And the energy he brings, too – he’s a very positive, upbeat guy. I’m really looking forward to getting to know him better.”