Phillies Release Outfielder Nick Castellanos

Two-time All-Star outfielder's disappointing tenure in Philadelphia comes to an end

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Philadelphia Phillies have officially released outfielder Nick Castellanos, ending his four-year stint with the team. Castellanos, a two-time All-Star, struggled to live up to expectations in Philadelphia, batting .260 with an OPS of .732 and 82 home runs in 602 games. The Phillies will be responsible for paying Castellanos' $20 million salary for the 2026 season.

Why it matters

Castellanos' release marks the end of a disappointing era for the Phillies, who had high hopes for the veteran outfielder when they signed him to a lucrative contract in 2022. His struggles on both offense and defense led to his eventual departure, and the team will now have to find a way to replace his production in the lineup.

The details

Castellanos was on the trade block all offseason, but the Phillies were unable to find a trade partner due to his high salary and underwhelming performance. In his four seasons with the team, he posted a -9 defensive runs saved and failed to live up to his offensive potential. The Phillies have decided to cut ties with Castellanos, who will now look to latch on with a new team and try to revive his career.

  • The Phillies released Castellanos on Thursday, February 12, 2026.

The players

Nick Castellanos

A two-time All-Star outfielder who spent the last four seasons with the Philadelphia Phillies.

Philadelphia Phillies

A Major League Baseball team based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Castellanos is now a free agent and could sign with a new team looking to add depth to their outfield and lineup. Teams like the Colorado Rockies, Pittsburgh Pirates, Miami Marlins, and his former club, the Cincinnati Reds, could be potential landing spots for the veteran outfielder.

The takeaway

The Phillies' decision to release Castellanos marks the end of a disappointing tenure in Philadelphia, as the team was unable to get the production they expected from the high-priced outfielder. Castellanos will now look to revive his career with a new team, hoping to recapture the form that made him a two-time All-Star earlier in his career.