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ESPN Prediction Has Phillies Sending Nick Castellanos to Pirates With Most Salary Covered

The scenario projects Philadelphia eating roughly $15 million of the $20 million owed in 2026 to clear a roster spot.

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - OCTOBER 06: Nick Castellanos #8 of the Philadelphia Phillies looks on after hitting a two-RBI double against the Los Angeles Dodgers during the ninth inning in game two of the National League Division Series at Citizens Bank Park on October 06, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)
January 23, 2026

Overview

  • The proposal originates with ESPN's Jesse Rogers and is summarized by The Sporting News, with no agreement announced by either club.
  • Castellanos enters the final season of a five-year, $100 million contract, and the Pirates' outlay is estimated near $5 million plus a minor asset or cash.
  • Philadelphia baseball operations chief Dave Dombrowski has said the team is still attempting to trade Castellanos, according to Newsweek.
  • Analysts view Castellanos as a better fit at designated hitter given defensive decline, noting his 2025 line included a .694 OPS and 17 home runs.
  • Pittsburgh has already added Brandon Lowe and Ryan O'Hearn, while separate commentary from ClutchPoints floats the Guardians, Reds, and Mariners as other speculative landing spots.