Juan

Castro

Castro will make $1 million in each of the next two seasons. The option for 2007 is also expected to be worth $1 million and contains a $50,000 buyout, but those figures could increase to $1.2 million and $100,000 respectively, depending on how he performs. In addition, Castro can void the option if he has 500 plate appearances in 2006. In 2005 and 2006, Castro can make an additional $250,000 per season: $25,000 each for 300 and 350 plate appearances; $50,000 each for 400 and 450 plate appearances; and $100,000 for 500 plate appearances.

X-rays showed no broken bones. Castro is day-to-day.

Castro has no hits in his last 15 at-bats. Manager Dave Miley says he might use Castro on defense, but wouldn’t want him to hit right now.

Castro, who is day-to-day with a tight back, has hit .264 with nine homers and 32 RBI in 307 at-bats this season. Don’t go adding him to your wish lists yet; Castro’s value is as a utility man, and much still depends on the status of Brandon Larson, Barry Larkin, and whatever offseason moves (Pokey Reese has been rumored) the team makes.

Jason LaRue is in the same boat with a similar injury. Both were available to pinch-hit Monday.

Castro passed a fitness test yesterday and took batting practice without any problems.

The Reds will wait to see how Castro feels today before deciding on a rehab assignment for him.

Castro is eligible to come off the DL Wednesday, and may do so since the Reds are shorthanded in the middle infield at the moment.

It’s a good night to catch a Bats game. Castro is joining Austin Kearns and Aaron Harang in Louisville.

Castro apparently was hurt on a hard turn around first following his hit. Jason Bartlett pinch-ran for him.