Philadelphia Phillies outfielder Nick Castellanos remains with the team for now amid ongoing trade discussions. Phillies president Dave Dombrowski suggested a change of scenery could benefit Castellanos, who has been shopped in previous offseasons. Castellanos expressed uncertainty about his future but focused on preparing for the 2025 season.
In a recent appearance on MLB Network's Hot Stove show, Nick Castellanos discussed the swirling trade rumors surrounding his future with the Philadelphia Phillies. The 33-year-old right-handed hitter, who has spent four seasons in Philadelphia, acknowledged the speculation but emphasized maintaining focus on his training. "Well, I have no idea," Castellanos said when asked about his 2025 plans. "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."
The Phillies have attempted to trade Castellanos in each of the past two offseasons and are pursuing a deal again this winter. Both sides anticipate a separation before Spring Training, according to sources. Phillies president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski commented last month at the GM Meetings in Las Vegas that a "change of scenery" might help Castellanos.
Castellanos indicated openness to positional changes, stating he is willing to learn first base if a team requires it, hinting at inquiries from other clubs about his versatility. However, trading him could prove challenging; he is owed $20 million for next season, and the Phillies may need to cover most of that salary.
Over his four years with Philadelphia, Castellanos has posted a .260/.306/.426 slash line, a .732 OPS, and a 100 OPS+, performing at league-average offensively. Defensively, his -32 outs above average ranks seventh-worst among 267 qualified players in that span. This season, he ranked last among 145 qualified players with -0.6 fWAR and -1.0 bWAR.
Incidents have strained his relationship with the team, including a benching in June in Miami for inappropriate dugout comments after manager Rob Thomson removed him defensively. Castellanos voiced frustrations with Thomson again in September.
Several teams could benefit from a right-handed corner outfielder like Castellanos, but many may prefer waiting for a potential release to sign him at the league minimum rather than absorbing his contract.