Nick Castellanos remains with the Philadelphia Phillies as the offseason trade discussions continue. Phillies president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski recently stated at the GM Meetings in Las Vegas that a “change of scenery” could benefit Castellanos, who has been on the trade block for two consecutive offseasons. According to sources, both parties anticipate a separation before Spring Training.
Castellanos addressed his uncertain future during an appearance on MLB Hot Stove on MLB Network. He said, “Well, I have no idea. All I know is that this offseason, I know that I wanted to just live as simple as possible, focus on training and being in a great spot just so I’m physically ready for 162 [games] next year. You know? There’s a lot of stuff right now that’s out of my control as far as like the trade talks and everything. So, I’m just trying to focus on making sure today, I get done what needs to get done. Whatever happens is going to happen.”
He also indicated he is open to learning first base if needed: “a team or somebody needs me to do that.” This openness suggests teams have shown interest in his flexibility regarding defensive positions.
Moving Castellanos may prove difficult due to his contract; he is set to earn $20 million next season. It is expected that Philadelphia would need to cover much of his salary in any potential deal.
Last season included disciplinary issues for Castellanos—he was benched in June following inappropriate comments and actions after manager Rob Thomson removed him from a game for defensive reasons. In September, he again voiced frustrations with Thomson.
In four years with Philadelphia, Castellanos has posted a .260 batting average with a .306 on-base percentage and .426 slugging percentage—a .732 OPS—alongside an OPS+ of 100, reflecting league-average offensive production over that span. Defensively, he ranked among the lowest performers by outs above average (-32) over those four seasons.
This past year was especially challenging statistically; among qualified players across Major League Baseball, Castellanos finished last in both fWAR (-0.6) and bWAR (-1.0).
While several teams are searching for right-handed-hitting corner outfielders like Castellanos, many may be reluctant to take on any portion of his contract given his recent performance and might instead wait until he becomes available at the league minimum if released.
