Phillies Expected to Seek Nick Castellanos Trade Amid Outfield Reshuffle

The Philadelphia Phillies are considering moving on from veteran right fielder Nick Castellanos this offseason due to his recent struggles and diminished playing time. Castellanos, who is under contract through 2026 and making $20 million in his final year, has seen his role reduced to a platoon player alongside Max Kepler, with the Phillies exploring trade possibilities and potentially eating a significant portion of his remaining salary to facilitate a deal. Despite starting all 162 games in 2024, Castellanos has hit poorly recently, batting just .180 in August and .194 in his last 25 games, leading the Phillies to favor other outfielders such as Harrison Bader, Brandon Marsh, and Weston Wilson. Castellanos has publicly accepted the platoon role and expressed a team-first mindset, emphasizing the goal of winning over individual achievements. The Phillies' reshaped outfield following the acquisition of Bader and the emergence of prospects like Justin Crawford suggests a new direction for the team, with the potential trade of Castellanos freeing up salary and roster space. The upcoming four-game series against the New York Mets could have significant implications for the NL East division race and the Phillies' postseason aspirations.