Former MLB general manager Jim Bowden recently suggested some ambitious moves for teams, including a proposed deal that would land the Boston Red Sox some much-needed help in the starting rotation.

But Bowden isn't just throwing the deal out there. There could be some fire behind that smoke.

In a recent article for The Athletic, Bowden proposed a trade where Boston would acquire right-hander Luis Castillo from the Mariners in exchange for young infielders Triston Casas and Blaze Jordan.

Last week, MLB.com reported that Seattle is listening to offers for the 32-year-old pitcher. Castillo is part of a Mariners rotation that is loaded with talent -- most of which is young and cheap.

Meanwhile, Castillo is a pricey veteran -- the oldest of the bunch. As a result, he's the likeliest arm to be moved this offseason.

Castillo is a three-time All-Star. Last season, he went 11-12 with a 3.64 ERA in 30 starts.

Earlier this offseason, the Red Sox reportedly tried to acquire one of Seattle's younger starters -- Bryce Miller or Bryan Woo -- in exchange for Casas, but were shut down.

This alternate proposal from Bowden represents a much more enticing package for the Mariners. Like Boston's recent trade for Garrett Crochet, it wouldn't come cheap. It would include parting ways with some of the franchise's most prized young talent -- especially Casas.

The 24-year-old Casas is one of the more exciting young talents on the Red Sox roster. Meanwhile, the 21-year-old Jordan is Boston's No. 22 prospect, according to MLB.com.

This offseason, the Red Sox front office has seemed more aggressive in its efforts to improve the roster. That includes reports that Boston is "open" to trading Casas in exchange for help in the rotation.

As Bowden mentioned in his proposal, there are still plenty of dominos that could fall as the MLB offseason progresses. The Red Sox could land a prized free agent like Corbin Burnes. They could also land Alex Bregman and move Rafael Devers to first base. Meanwhile, the Mariners could also be pursuing Bregman.

Here's what we do know: The Red Sox have their eyes on Seattle's rotation. As things stand, the likeliest target is Castillo -- and the likeliest trade bait is Casas.