Phillies Seek Trade for Outfielder Nick Castellanos

Team looking to move veteran before first full-squad spring training workout

Feb. 9, 2026 at 6:07pm

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The Philadelphia Phillies are actively trying to trade outfielder Nick Castellanos ahead of the team's first full-squad spring training workout. Castellanos, who is going into the final year of a $100 million contract, had a contentious relationship with manager Rob Thomson last season and was benched late in the year.

Why it matters

The Phillies are looking to move on from Castellanos as they prepare for the upcoming season. His departure would open up a spot in the outfield for Adolis García, who the team signed to a $10 million, one-year deal in the offseason.

The details

Phillies president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski said the team has been in talks with other clubs about trading Castellanos. The 34-year-old hit .250 with 17 home runs and 72 RBIs in 147 games for the NL East champions last year, but had a strained relationship with manager Rob Thomson, who described an "inappropriate comment" Castellanos made after being pulled for a defensive replacement.

  • The Phillies' pitchers and catchers are slated to have their first spring training workout on Wednesday.
  • The team's first full-squad workout is scheduled for next Monday.

The players

Nick Castellanos

A 34-year-old outfielder who is going into the final season of a $100 million, five-year contract with the Phillies.

Rob Thomson

The Phillies manager who benched Castellanos late last season after an "inappropriate comment" from the outfielder.

Dave Dombrowski

The Phillies' president of baseball operations who said the team is actively trying to trade Castellanos before the start of spring training.

Adolis García

An outfielder who the Phillies signed to a $10 million, one-year contract in December and is expected to replace Castellanos in right field.

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What they’re saying

“That's our focus prior to the start of spring training. So that's something that we'll continue to work on this week.”

— Dave Dombrowski, Phillies President of Baseball Operations

“Communication has been questionable, at least in my experience.”

— Nick Castellanos

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.