Red Sox designate Triple-A pitcher for assignment, makes room for new catcher

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The Red Sox designated minor league pitcher Max Castillo for assignment on Friday, making room for new catcher Tyler Heineman, who the team acquired from the Mets in a trade.

The 24-year-old originally came to the Red Sox after he was claimed off waivers from the Royals in early January.

The right-hander from Venezuela made seven MLB appearances in 2023, posting a 4.43 ERA, taking a loss with 10 strikeouts in 20 1/3 innings of work with Kansas City.

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All of Castillo’s appearances with the Royals came out of their bullpen.

Castillo spent the majority of last season pitching for the Royals Triple-A affiliate in Omaha. He posted a 6-7 record with a 4.58 ERA and 94 strikeouts in 116 innings over 22 appearances, making 21 starts. He also has tossed quality innings during winter ball this year for his native Venezuela.

Castillo went 5-0 with a 2.72 ERA in 11 games, 49 2/3 innings pitched.

Entering into the 2023 season, Castillo was ranked as the No. 23 prospect in their system by Baseball America. The righty was projected to provide the Red Sox depth as a starter in Worcester this coming season. The Red Sox could potentially bring Castillo back on a minors pact, but he will need to clear waivers, until then, the club has seven days to trade, release or waive Castillo.

Veteran Zack Weiss is in the same boat after he was designated for assignment by the team on Wednesday.

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