The Philadelphia Phillies and the city of Philadelphia nabbed their guy. Ex-Reds outfielder Nick Castellanos has inked a 5-year, $100 million deal with the Philadelphia Phillies joining an outfield featuring Most Valuable Player Bryce Harper and All-Star masher Kyle Schwarber.
Despite Bryce Harper calling for more firepower in the lineup, it was widely believed the Phillies would not go after Nick Castellanos due to luxury tax implications. Phillies ownership proved everyone wrong with their willingness to go over the luxury tax. More importantly, they went over the luxury tax for the right player.
The Player
The 30-year-old third basemen and outfielder is coming off of his first All-Star game appearance and Silver Slugger award after mashing 34 homeruns and 38 doubles across 585 plate appearances. Castellanos reached base at a higher rate (36%) in 2021 than at any other point in his career (32% across eight seasons) showing advancement and maturity at the plate. Castellanos’ OPS+ of 136 was the second highest of his career (153 in 2019). While playing the majority of his time in right field, Castellanos amassed a career high WAR of 3.1 making him one of the best outfielders in 2021.
Although this signing may provide some challenges defensively for the Philadelphia Phillies and manager Joe Girardi, it was the perfect opportunity to add another scary bat and protection to a lineup featuring some major hitters. It is entirely possible we come back in a few months and determine defense is the downfall of the Philadelphia Phillies 2022 season. It is also entirely possible we talk about how this signing made the Phillies a championship team.
The Dangerous Lineup
The Phillies may have the most dangerous lineup in the National League with at least four players capable of hitting 30 homeruns per year. Another four players are capable of hitting 20 homeruns per year. Will the past be a good predictor of the future? We will see.
