Padres Sign Nick Castellanos to One-Year Deal

The San Diego Padres have agreed to a one-year deal with the veteran outfielder, with the club paying him the MLB minimum salary of $780,000. The Philadelphia Phillies, who released him while still owing $20 million for the final year of his contract, will cover the remaining balance minus the prorated minimum.

The move gives Castellanos a fresh opportunity with a contender while costing San Diego very little financially.

Phillies Still Paying the Bill

The Phillies cut ties after failing to find a trade partner before spring training workouts began. Castellanos was entering the final season of the five-year, $100 million deal he signed prior to 2022.

By signing for the minimum, Castellanos allows the Padres to subtract $780,000 from the $20 million owed, leaving Philadelphia responsible for roughly $19.22 million.

His exit from Philadelphia followed public tension with manager Rob Thomson, including a dugout incident last June in which Castellanos admitted bringing a beer into the dugout after being removed late in a game. He later apologized for letting emotions get the best of him.

A New Role in San Diego

With the San Diego Padres, Castellanos is expected to see time at designated hitter and first base — a position he has never played in the majors but has reportedly worked on extensively this offseason. Right field is occupied by Fernando Tatis Jr., limiting Castellanos’ opportunities in the outfield.

San Diego appears to view him as a low-risk depth addition and potential platoon bat as it builds off a 90-win season and consecutive playoff appearances.

Searching for a Late-Career Rebound

Castellanos, 33, hit .250 with 17 home runs and 72 RBIs in 147 games last season. However, his production has declined over the past three years, and defensive metrics have consistently graded him below average in right field.

Now entering his age-34 season, Castellanos will attempt to revive his value in a more flexible role. For the Padres, the gamble is minimal. For Castellanos, it’s a chance to reset on a postseason-caliber roster.

Sometimes the best contracts are the ones someone else is still paying for.

More MLB: Phillies Release Nick Castellanos After ‘Miami Incident’ Revelation