Phillies Aim to Trade Nick Castellanos Before Spring Training

Team president says they're working to find a new home for the veteran outfielder.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Philadelphia Phillies are actively trying to trade outfielder Nick Castellanos before the start of their first full-squad spring training workout next Monday. Phillies president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski said the team has been in talks with other clubs about moving Castellanos, who had a contentious end to the 2025 season with the team.

Why it matters

Castellanos is going into the final season of a lucrative $100 million, five-year contract with the Phillies. The team is looking to move on from the veteran outfielder after he made "an inappropriate comment" that led to him being benched late last season. Resolving Castellanos' status is a priority for the Phillies before spring training begins in earnest.

The details

Castellanos, who turns 34 on March 4, hit .250 with 17 home runs and 72 RBIs in 147 games for the NL East champion Phillies last year. The team has been in discussions with other clubs about finding a new home for Castellanos, with Adolis García expected to replace him in right field after signing a $10 million, one-year contract with Philadelphia in December.

  • The Phillies' pitchers and catchers are slated to have their first spring training workout on Wednesday, February 15, 2026.
  • The Phillies' first full-squad workout is scheduled for next Monday, February 24, 2026.

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.

Dave Dombrowski

The president of baseball operations for the Philadelphia Phillies.

Rob Thomson

The manager of the Philadelphia Phillies.

Adolis García

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

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

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, President of baseball operations, Philadelphia Phillies (cbsnews.com)

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

— Nick Castellanos (cbsnews.com)

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.