Rockies Roster Shuffle: Castro Out, Machin In
Castro's Current Health Status and Performance
Willi Castro, the 29-year-old infielder/outfielder for the Colorado Rockies, has been sidelined due to persistent left heel inflammation. This condition, identified as plantar fasciitis, led to his placement on the 10-day injured list, with the effective date set retroactively to Wednesday. His last appearance on the field was Monday, in a game against the Baltimore Orioles, before the injury necessitated his removal from active play.
A Look at Castro's Impressive Season
Despite his recent injury, Castro has enjoyed a career-best season with the Rockies. He has demonstrated significant power at the plate, smashing a personal high of 15 home runs. His offensive contributions also include a solid .260 batting average and 56 runs batted in over 120 games. His performance has been a bright spot for the team throughout the current campaign.
Castro's Versatility Across the Infield and Outfield
Castro's value to the Rockies extends beyond his hitting prowess; his exceptional versatility in the field has been crucial. This season, he has played a variety of positions, starting 51 games at second base and 36 at third. Additionally, he has made 15 starts at shortstop, six at first base, and two in left field, showcasing his ability to adapt to different roles as needed by the team.
Overview of Castro's Professional Baseball Career
Throughout his Major League Baseball career, which began in 2019, Castro has maintained a respectable .247 batting average. His career statistics include 71 home runs and 284 RBIs across 825 games played. He has been a part of several teams, including the Detroit Tigers (2019-22), Minnesota Twins (2023-25), and Chicago Cubs (2025) before joining the Rockies. A notable highlight of his career was earning an American League All-Star selection in 2024 while with the Twins.
Vimael Machin Joins the Rockies Roster
In response to Castro's injury and subsequent placement on the injured list, the Colorado Rockies have brought up infielder Vimael Machin from their Triple-A affiliate, the Albuquerque Isotopes. This move signifies Machin's first stint in the major leagues this season, providing the team with additional depth in the infield during Castro's absence.
Machin's Professional Background and Season Debut
Vimael Machin, who will celebrate his 33rd birthday on September 25, brings experience from previous stints in the majors. His career batting average stands at .204, with two home runs and 15 RBIs over 116 games played. Before joining the Rockies organization, Machin played for the Oakland Athletics (2020-22) and the Baltimore Orioles (2025). This call-up marks an opportunity for Machin to contribute to the Rockies' season.
Roster Adjustments: Tyler Freeman Outrighted to Clear Space
To accommodate Vimael Machin's addition to the 40-man roster, the Colorado Rockies have outrighted outfielder Tyler Freeman to Triple-A Albuquerque. Freeman, 27, cleared waivers, making this roster adjustment possible. In his 79 games with the Rockies this season, Freeman batted .247, hitting three home runs and driving in 23 runs, before being assigned back to the minor league system.