Nick Castellanos is reportedly on his way out of Philadelphia, as The Athletic’s Matt Gelb reports the Phillies are expected to trade or release the veteran outfielder. This marks a significant shift for the 33-year-old, who still has one year remaining on his five-year, $100 million contract signed after the 2021 season.
Castellanos had previously thrived during his two-year stint with the Cincinnati Reds, slashing .284/.343/.550 across 198 games in 2020 and 2021. That productive run included 100 extra-base hits, establishing him as a key offensive force. The Reds extended him a qualifying offer following the 2021 season, but Castellanos opted to test free agency, landing with the Phillies. In return, Cincinnati received a compensation draft pick that turned into current top prospect Sal Stewart.
Fast forward to 2025, and Castellanos’ offensive production has declined. He posted a slash line of just .250/.294/.694 over 147 games, with his power and on-base skills both dipping noticeably. With the Phillies looking to stay competitive and potentially reallocate salary, his underwhelming performance and age make him a likely candidate to be moved or cut despite being under contract through 2026.
While there has been some fan speculation about a potential reunion between Castellanos and the Reds, that scenario appears unlikely. Cincinnati is looking to boost its offense this offseason, but Castellanos, now entering the later stages of his career and still carrying a significant financial commitment, doesn’t fit the profile of the solution they need.
Over the course of his 13-year MLB career, Castellanos has played for four teams: the Detroit Tigers, Chicago Cubs, Cincinnati Reds, and Philadelphia Phillies. While he’s had stretches of strong production — including All-Star nods and key playoff contributions — his inconsistency and defensive limitations have been long-standing concerns.
Meanwhile, the Reds are coming off a relatively successful 2025 season. Under new manager Terry Francona, they finished 83-79 and returned to the postseason for the first time since 2020. With a talented young core and a rising farm system, they are expected to be active in reshaping the roster this offseason — just not by revisiting the past with Castellanos.
As the Phillies weigh their options and the Reds seek offensive upgrades, the future for Castellanos remains uncertain. Whether he ends up traded or released, it’s clear his time in Philadelphia is nearing its end.
