Nick Castellanos’ time in Philadelphia is nearing its end, and while landing spots are tough to find, it sounds like one team is showing some level of interest. According to MLB insider Ken Rosenthal, the San Diego Padres could be a logical fit as the Phillies continue looking to move the veteran outfielder ahead of Opening Day.
“Dombrowski has said Nick Castellanos will not be on their roster on Opening Day,” Rosenthal said. “So the question becomes okay, who wants him? The Padres are looking for a right-handed bat and they're looking for one that would be inexpensive and Castellanos has been taking ground balls and training somewhat at first base, which is a position they're trying to fill. That is one possibility.”
Considering Dave Dombrowski has made it publicly known that he won’t be on the roster, it doesn’t put the Phillies in a good spot, but it’s part of the game. At this point, the conversation isn’t about whether a trade will happen, as it’s about which team will get him and what the return will be.
San Diego makes some sense if it wants to continue to compete, though reports stated that it wanted to shed payroll.
The Padres are searching for help offensively amid an offseason dealing with financial issues. They need production, but at a manageable cost. Castellanos, whose contract will run out after the year, is making $20 million in 2026.
Castellanos taking ground balls at first base is an interesting talking point. The Padres have a hole there, and even if he’s really bad defensively, there’s reason to believe he can be OK at first base.
For the Phillies, moving Castellanos isn’t about talent alone, but his comments and just flat-out average play in recent years can only be ignored for so much longer. By moving on, the Phillies would trade someone who has become a distraction and allow the roster to play the way Rob Thomson wants them to.
If Castellanos rebounds offensively and finds comfort at first base, the move would look rough, but I’d be willing to take that gamble if I’m the Phillies.