The Nick Castellanos era in Philadelphia is officially over, and the next chapter is already underway in San Diego.
After being released by the Phillies last week, Castellanos has landed with the Padres on a one-year deal at the league minimum. For a two-time All-Star who was owed $20 million in the final year of his original five-year contract, it’s a dramatic turn-but one that comes with a silver lining: a reunion with childhood friend Manny Machado and a fresh start with a team hungry to contend.
Castellanos reported to Padres spring training in Peoria, Arizona, and wasted no time expressing his excitement-not just about the move itself, but about what it represents. “It’s a lot of fun,” he said.
“I remember playing against Manny at 9-10 years old. Now being able to play with him in our 30s as grown men with families, we’re still pursuing a childhood dream of becoming a World Series champion.
He hasn’t won, and I haven’t won. I’m here to help him however he needs it.”
That’s not just nostalgia talking. It’s a reflection of two veterans who, despite all they’ve accomplished individually, still feel the weight of the one thing missing from their résumés: a ring. For Castellanos, joining Machado in San Diego isn’t just about comfort-it’s about unfinished business.
The Padres, meanwhile, are betting on a bounce-back from a player who’s shown he can be a middle-of-the-order force when he’s locked in. While the Phillies opted to eat the final year of his deal, San Diego is getting a motivated Castellanos at a bargain price-just $780,000 for the 2026 season. It’s a low-risk, high-upside move for a team looking to retool on the fly.
One of the early storylines to watch this spring? Castellanos’ relationship with new Padres manager Craig Stammen. The veteran outfielder had high praise for Stammen, citing the former MLB pitcher’s firsthand understanding of the game’s emotional rollercoaster.
“He’s a player. He’s done it,” Castellanos said.
“He has grinded. He’s felt the feeling of success, and he’s also felt the feeling of when the game doesn’t go your way.
There’s a lot of respect in that. I’m excited to do whatever he needs me to do.”
It’s a telling comment, especially considering the tension that reportedly existed between Castellanos and his former manager in Philadelphia, Rob Thomson. Castellanos admitted to a heated exchange with Thomson after being pulled from a game last June, and there were questions about whether the two ever saw eye to eye. Castellanos’ respect for Stammen’s playing background may hint at a desire for a different kind of clubhouse dynamic-one rooted in shared experience.
At 33, Castellanos is entering a pivotal stage of his career. He’s no longer the centerpiece of a lineup, but he’s far from done. The Padres are giving him a shot to contribute, to lead, and maybe-just maybe-to finally chase down that elusive World Series title alongside a friend who’s been in the picture since Little League.
The stakes are clear. The motivation is personal. And if Castellanos finds his groove in San Diego, this low-key signing could end up being one of the more impactful moves of the offseason.