MLB Execs Say Phillies Cutting Nick Castellanos Was Addition by Subtraction

The majority of MLB insiders polled named Castellanos' departure as the best subtraction of the offseason.

Feb. 22, 2026 at 12:39pm

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The Philadelphia Phillies signed outfielder Nick Castellanos to a $100 million contract in 2022, but his tenure with the team did not go as planned. According to a poll of MLB executives and insiders conducted by The Athletic's Jayson Stark, Castellanos' release by the Phillies this offseason was viewed as the best subtraction made by any team, even before the move was officially announced.

Why it matters

Castellanos struggled both offensively and defensively during his time with the Phillies, and his hefty contract made him a liability on the roster. The Phillies are viewed as being better off without him, allowing them to fill his spot with a player like Adolis Garcia who provides more value on both sides of the ball.

The details

Despite the Phillies making the postseason every year since signing Castellanos, he was not a major factor in their success. His $100 million deal did not age well, and he hit just .250 with a .694 OPS and 88 OPS+ in 2025, well below his career norms. Castellanos was also one of the worst defensive outfielders in baseball, with poor range despite minimal errors.

  • The Phillies signed Castellanos to a $100 million contract in 2022.
  • Castellanos was cut by the Phillies this offseason.

The players

Nick Castellanos

A former All-Star outfielder who signed a $100 million contract with the Phillies in 2022 but struggled both offensively and defensively during his time with the team.

Adolis Garcia

A power-hitting right fielder who the Phillies signed to replace Castellanos, providing superior defense compared to the departed outfielder.

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What they’re saying

“The Phillies cutting Castellanos is an addition by subtraction.”

— Jayson Stark, Reporter

What’s next

The Phillies will look to build on their recent postseason success with Castellanos off the roster and Garcia providing a boost in right field.

The takeaway

This move highlights the importance of roster construction and not overpaying for players who do not fit a team's needs, even if they have a track record of past success. The Phillies are viewed as being in a better position moving forward after cutting ties with Castellanos.