Mariners defeat reliever Diego Castillo in arbitration

The Seattle Mariners defeated Diego Castillo in arbitration, meaning the right-handed reliever will receive $2.9 million in 2023.

Castillo requested $3.225 million. The decision, rendered Wednesday by a three-judge panel, is the first arbitration case decision of the year.

Castillo still receives a raise of $800,000. He went 7-3 with a 3.64 ERA and seven saves in 59 appearances last season.

The 29-year-old Castillo is 24-18 with a 3.12 ERA and 35 saves in 250 appearances (17 starts) over five seasons between the Tampa Bay Rays (2018-21) and Mariners (2021-22).

Castillo has been a stellar postseason pitcher, going 1-0 with a 0.98 ERA and three saves in 17 appearances, including one as an opener.

Los Angeles Angels outfielder Hunter Renfroe is also waiting on a decision. His case was heard Monday and he requested $11.9 million and the Angels countered with $11.25 million. Renfroe made $7.65 million last season with the Milwaukee Brewers before being traded to the Angels in the offseason.