Padres Sign Nick Castellanos in New Contract Agreement
In a significant move for the San Diego Padres, outfielder Nick Castellanos has signed a new contract. The deal, confirmed by Jon Heyman of the New York Post, grants Castellanos a salary of $780,000, aligning with the Major League Baseball minimum wage for the 2026 season.
Contract Details and Roster Changes
With this agreement, the Padres will not need to make any changes to their 40-man roster, pending Castellanos passing a physical exam. The player’s representation comes from Mato Sports Management.
This signing follows San Diego’s recent acquisition of Miguel Andujar, who signed a one-year contract worth $4 million. Castellanos adds another veteran right-handed option to the team’s designated hitter (DH) role or bench spots.
Potential Role with the Team
Interestingly, Castellanos may also compete for first base, a position he has never played professionally. His transition comes as he has faced challenges in the outfield, specifically at third base and corner outfield positions. This shift seems timely, especially since he has been largely blocked from first base during his 13 years in Major League Baseball.
- Gavin Sheets is expected to be the Padres’ primary first base option.
- Ramon Laureano will likely play left field, while Andujar will primarily serve as a DH.
- Fernando Tatis Jr. holds the right field position, limiting Castellanos’ opportunities there.
The Padres had previously shown interest in Castellanos during trade discussions with the Philadelphia Phillies prior to his release. The Phillies faced challenges in finding a trade partner, showing clear intent to move on from Castellanos’s contract.
Financial Impact
The Padres’ $780,000 commitment will be deducted from the $20 million owed to Castellanos in 2026. This leaves the Phillies responsible for approximately $19.22 million for the final year of Castellanos’s five-year, $100 million contract signed in the 2021-22 offseason.
Throughout his tenure in Philadelphia, Castellanos produced a 0.8 fWAR and an average 100 wRC+, hitting .260 with 82 home runs over 2,477 plate appearances. His performance included below-average defensive contributions in right field, further complicated by the presence of other prominent players in the line-up.
Controversies and Career Revival
Castellanos’s time with the Phillies was marked by controversy, including disputes with management over his performance and handling. A notable incident involved a public altercation during a game, leading to an Instagram apology from Castellanos.
As he approaches his age-34 season, Castellanos faces challenges in adjusting to a part-time role while trying to revive his career. His performance with the Padres could be crucial in reinstating his value for future contracts.
Joining the Padres, a team that has experienced its share of internal struggles, presents a unique opportunity for Castellanos. Fielding questions about his controversial past, he will look to rebuild his reputation during the upcoming season.
