Starlin Castro was drawing interest in the weeks leading up to the July non-waiver trade deadline but the Cubs were unable to get a deal done because of his extensive contract. Castro has cleared waivers, according to CBS Sports' Jon Heyman, but has yet to be moved, likely for the same reason.
Castro, 25, signed a seven-year, $60 million contract with the Cubs but still has $39 million remaining through 2019. As Heyman notes, he no longer appears to be a bargain and contending clubs are hesitant to take on his entire contract.
Through 122 games this season, Castro has posted a .242/.274/.317 batting line to complement six home runs and 48 RBIs. However, last season, he was notably productive, batting .292/.339/.438 in addition to 14 home runs and 65 RBIs over 134 games.
When he is at his best, Castro is considered to be one of the better shortstops in the National League. He has been named to the All-Star team three times in his young major league career and is a key piece of the Cubs' current core.
Chicago is not known to be an organization open to selling low and as a result the club is expected to hold onto Castro through the end of the season. But Heyman also adds the Cubs are expected to consider moving Castro again this winter.
If Castro is able to post solid offensive numbers throughout the final few weeks of the season, clubs seeking shortstop help will likely think highly of Castro once again. The Cubs have a notable amount of infield depth and have been trying to find playing time for their infield prospects. A trade involving Castro would likely create a hole at second base.
While Castro is not expected to be moved before the end of the season, a winter trade remains likely. The Cubs are hoping Castro becomes more valuable before the end of the season.