Castellanos Reflects on Phillies Exit, Looks Ahead to Padres

Slugger says he has no regrets about how his time in Philadelphia ended as he begins new chapter in San Diego.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

Nick Castellanos, the newly acquired outfielder for the San Diego Padres, has opened up about his departure from the Philadelphia Phillies. Despite the rocky finish to his time in Philadelphia, Castellanos says he has no regrets and took valuable lessons from the experience as he looks ahead to a fresh start with the Padres.

Why it matters

Castellanos' comments provide insight into how players handle difficult exits from teams and the mindset they bring to new opportunities. His perspective on learning from adversity resonates with fans and offers a glimpse into the mental side of professional sports.

The details

Castellanos was released by the Phillies earlier this week after a disappointing tenure in which he openly expressed frustration with his role and performance. However, the slugger says he spoke "from the heart" during that time and has no regrets about his honesty. Now, he is eager to put that chapter behind him and focus on contributing to the Padres' playoff push.

  • Castellanos was released by the Phillies earlier this week.
  • He signed with the Padres shortly after his release.

The players

Nick Castellanos

A veteran outfielder who was recently signed by the San Diego Padres after being released by the Philadelphia Phillies.

Philadelphia Phillies

The Major League Baseball team that Castellanos played for prior to his release and signing with the Padres.

San Diego Padres

The Major League Baseball team that Castellanos has signed with after being released by the Phillies.

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What they’re saying

“In the moment, I felt how I felt, and I spoke from the heart, and I was honest in every word that I said,”

— Nick Castellanos

What’s next

Castellanos is expected to make his debut with the Padres in the coming days as the team looks to bolster their lineup for a potential playoff run.

The takeaway

Castellanos' openness about his departure from the Phillies and his eagerness to start fresh with the Padres demonstrates the resilience and adaptability required of professional athletes as they navigate the ups and downs of their careers.