Texas Rangers Sign Former Pirates Infielder Diego Castillo After Explosive Run in Mexican League
The Texas Rangers made a low-profile but intriguing roster addition Tuesday, signing former Pittsburgh Pirates infielder Diego A. Castillo to a minor league contract after his dominant performance in the Mexican League drew attention from major league organizations.
According to New York Post insider Jon Heyman, Castillo agreed to terms with Texas after an extraordinary offensive stretch with Algodoneros de Unión Laguna in Mexico. The 28-year-old utility player had been one of the hottest hitters in the league, posting an eye-popping .528 batting average before landing the deal with the Rangers.
Castillo’s standout performance in Mexico included two home runs and 14 RBIs in just 40 plate appearances, showcasing the type of offensive production that convinced Texas to take a flier on the former major leaguer. His signing represents a calculated gamble by the Rangers, who are hoping his recent success can translate into productive play within affiliated baseball.
Though the move may not generate major headlines, it gives Texas an experienced depth option with versatility across the infield and some previous big-league experience.
Castillo first reached the majors in 2022 with the Pittsburgh Pirates, appearing in 96 games during his rookie campaign. In that season, he hit 11 home runs and provided occasional power from the middle infield while posting a .633 OPS. While his debut season showed flashes of promise, Castillo was unable to establish himself as a long-term fixture at the major league level.
Following his stint with Pittsburgh, Castillo spent the next several seasons bouncing around the minor leagues, primarily at the Triple-A level. During that time, he played within six different organizations, searching for another opportunity to return to the majors. Despite his journeyman path, Castillo continued to stay in professional baseball and recently found his rhythm in Mexico.
His scorching numbers in the Mexican League suggest he may have rediscovered his swing, prompting the Rangers to add him to their system in hopes he can provide depth and perhaps emerge as a useful contributor down the road.
For Texas, the signing comes with little risk and potential upside. At minimum, Castillo gives the organization additional infield insurance in the upper minors and a player who can be called upon if injuries strike the major league roster. His ability to play multiple positions only increases his value as a depth piece.
If Castillo can carry over even part of his offensive surge into the Rangers’ farm system, he could quickly work his way into consideration for a call-up later this season. While translating success from the Mexican League to MLB-affiliated baseball is never guaranteed, Texas clearly believes his recent performance is worth monitoring.
The Rangers have made several under-the-radar moves in recent years that have paid dividends, and they will hope Castillo becomes another example of finding value in unexpected places.
For now, Castillo will report to the Rangers’ minor league system as he attempts to continue his resurgence and work his way back to the major leagues.
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