The Padres and outfielder Nick Castellanos have agreed to a Major League deal, according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post. Castellanos will earn $780K, the MLB minimum salary for the 2026 season. With an open spot on their 40-man roster, no corresponding move is required once the deal is finalized after Castellanos passes a physical. Castellanos is represented by Mato Sports Management.
San Diego has added Castellanos to its list of DH or bench candidates, joining Miguel Andujar, who was signed to a one-year, $4MM guarantee a few days ago. Castellanos will also be in the first base mix, a notable move since he has never played the position during his pro career. Despite struggling in the field as a third baseman and corner outfielder, Castellanos is expected to transition to first base, a move long overdue given his 13-year MLB tenure.
The Padres' top choice at first base is Gavin Sheets, so Castellanos will be a platoon partner. Ramon Laureano will get most of the time in left field, making Andujar a primary DH and creating competition for Castellanos. Castellanos' old position of right field is now occupied by Fernando Tatis Jr., so he won't get much time in right unless Tatis is injured or gets a DH day.
The Padres were seen as a potential candidate to acquire Castellanos during the Phillies' winter-long attempts to find a trade partner. Trade talks between the two teams occurred before Castellanos was released two days ago. The Padres' $780K commitment will be subtracted from the $20MM owed to Castellanos in 2026, leaving the Phillies on the hook for $19.22MM in the final season of his five-year, $100MM deal.
Castellanos' performance in Philadelphia was underwhelming, with a 0.8 fWAR and 100 wRC+ over four seasons and 2477 plate appearances. He hit .260/.306/.426 and 82 home runs in a Philadelphia uniform. Castellanos' lack of production and defensive struggles led to tension with the team, including a public protest of his removal from a game, as detailed by The Athletic's Matt Gelb.
Despite his controversial Phillies stint, Castellanos is now entering his age-34 season and looking to revive his career in San Diego. A bounce-back performance would boost his value for future contracts. However, it remains to be seen if he can play first base at a passable level or adjust to a part-time role. The Padres' issues behind the scenes, including a revolving door in the manager's office, may impact Castellanos' performance and the team's success.
