The Colorado Rockies have reached an agreement on a two-year, $12.8 million contract with free-agent utility player Willi Castro, according to reports. The deal adds defensive versatility and switch-hitting experience to the team's young infield following a 119-loss season. Castro, entering his age-29 season, joins after a down year split between the Minnesota Twins and Chicago Cubs.
Reports from MLB Network's Jon Heyman and The Athletic on Thursday indicated that the Rockies have agreed to terms with Willi Castro on a two-year free-agent contract worth $12.8 million, though the club has not yet confirmed the move. This signing comes as the Rockies embark on a rebuild under new president of baseball operations Paul DePodesta, providing depth to a youthful infield that featured rookies like Kyle Karros at third base, Ryan Ritter at second, and Blaine Crim at first base last season.
Castro, a seven-year veteran and switch-hitter, brings positional flexibility across second base (206 games), left field (164), shortstop (161), and third base (105), in addition to outfield spots. He played all four infield positions in 2025 but spent most time in the outfield. His addition could offer rest for shortstop Ezequiel Tovar, who dealt with injuries. As the only left-handed hitter among the Rockies' young infielders—aside from Troy Johnston—Castro helps balance a right-handed group. He also possesses a strong throwing arm in the 86th percentile and above-average speed.
After an All-Star season in 2024 with 12 home runs, Castro experienced a dip in 2025, batting .226 with an OPS of .679 and OPS+ of 89—his lowest since 2022—while hitting 11 homers. He performed well with the Twins (.743 OPS in 86 games) before a July 31 trade to the Cubs, where he struggled (.170 average in 34 games, .485 OPS in 110 plate appearances). Earlier, Castro revived his career with the Twins on a minor-league deal post-2022, posting 2.6 WAR in 2023 with nine homers and 33 stolen bases. Defensively, he recorded minus-9 Outs Above Average in 2025, ranking near the bottom. Known for his positive clubhouse presence, Castro was ranked No. 48 on The Athletic's free-agent big board.