Phillies Release Outfielder Nick Castellanos After Dugout Beer Incident

Castellanos admits to bringing beer into the dugout, leading to his benching and eventual release from the team.

Feb. 12, 2026 at 11:55pm

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The Philadelphia Phillies have released outfielder Nick Castellanos after the team was unable to trade him. Castellanos revealed that he was previously benched last season after bringing beer into the dugout during a game and making an inappropriate comment to the manager, Rob Thomson. Castellanos posted a handwritten note explaining the incident, saying he apologized to Thomson and Phillies president Dave Dombrowski, and was benched the next game as punishment.

Why it matters

Bringing alcohol into the dugout is a violation of team rules and can be seen as disruptive behavior, especially for a veteran player. The Phillies, who made the playoffs last season, likely wanted to move on from the incident and avoid further distractions as they prepare for the new season.

The details

After being pulled from a game in Miami, Castellanos brought beer into the dugout and complained to manager Rob Thomson about team rules. His teammates took the beer away before he could drink any. Castellanos then met with Thomson and Dombrowski, apologized for letting his emotions get the best of him, and was benched the next game as punishment.

  • Castellanos was benched last season after the dugout beer incident.
  • Castellanos was released by the Phillies on February 13, 2026.

The players

Nick Castellanos

A 34-year-old outfielder who was released by the Philadelphia Phillies after violating team rules by bringing beer into the dugout.

Rob Thomson

The manager of the Philadelphia Phillies who benched Castellanos after the dugout beer incident.

Dave Dombrowski

The president of baseball operations for the Philadelphia Phillies who was involved in the meeting with Castellanos after the dugout beer incident.

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What they’re saying

“We aired out our differences and the conversation ended with me apologizing for letting my emotions get the best of me.”

— Nick Castellanos

What’s next

The Phillies will look to fill the right field position with Adolis García, who signed a $10 million, one-year contract with the team in December.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance of professional athletes adhering to team rules and maintaining composure, even when emotions run high. The Phillies' decision to release Castellanos sends a clear message about the organization's expectations for its players.