Phillies’ Free Agency Focus: Upgrading the Corner Outfield

Philadelphia expected to move on from Nick Castellanos as offseason begins

As the offseason opens, the Philadelphia Phillies appear ready to reshape their outfield — starting with the likely departure of Nick Castellanos. After another disappointing postseason exit, the club’s attention has turned to upgrading both corner spots, a move that could reshape the middle of their lineup heading into 2026.

According to MLB Insider Jim Bowden, “the Phillies are also focused on improving their corner outfield spots. Free agents Kyle Tucker and Cody Bellinger would be perfect fits. If they miss out on those two, they could look to the trade market, where Jarren Duran (Red Sox), Steven Kwan (Guardians), or Jo Adell (Angels) could be available.”

Castellanos, who has one year remaining on his deal, struggled with consistency throughout the 2025 season. Moving on from the veteran slugger would open financial flexibility and lineup balance for President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowski— who expects to be aggressive in pursuing a corner outfield bat that fits the team’s contact-first, defensively improved profile.

With Bryce Harper anchored at first base and questions surrounding Brandon Marsh’s role, Philadelphia’s approach to the outfield this winter could define the next phase of their championship window.

Kyle Tucker

Chicago’s star right fielder Kyle Tucker would be the dream target for Philadelphia — a left-handed, five-tool player entering his prime and capable of impacting the game in every phase.

In 136 games for the Cubbies in 2025, Tucker hit .266/.377/.464 with 22 home runs, 73 RBIs, and 25 stolen bases, posting an .841 OPS, 143 OPS+, and 4.6 WAR. He also drew 87 walks to just 88 strikeouts, highlighting one of the most balanced and disciplined offensive profiles in baseball. Tucker’s blend of plate patience, gap-to-gap power, and efficient baserunning make him an ideal fit for the top half of a Phillies lineup that has often leaned too heavily on streaky, power-first hitters.

Defensively, Tucker remains among the most reliable corner outfielders in the game, capable of providing Gold Glove-caliber defense while strengthening Philadelphia’s overall athleticism. At 28 years old, he’s entering his prime and would give the Phillies a long-term, two-way cornerstone alongside Bryce Harper and Trea Turner.

Landing Tucker, of course, won’t come cheap. His well-rounded production and age profile make him one of this winter’s most coveted free agents — and a likely candidate for a contract north of $250 million. But for a Phillies team seeking lineup balance and improved defense, Tucker checks every box as the kind of foundational addition who could define the franchise’s next era.

Cody Bellinger

If Kyle Tucker proves too expensive or unavailable, Cody Bellinger represents the next best fit — and one with more versatility. The 2023 Comeback Player of the Year has continued to rebuild his career after joining the Yankees, posting one of his most complete seasons in 2025.

In 152 games with New York, Bellinger hit .272 with 29 home runs, 98 RBIs, 13 steals, and an .813 OPS — good for a 125 OPS+ and 5.1 WAR. He struck out just 90 times across 656 plate appearances, showing a much-improved contact profile while maintaining his power and athleticism. Bellinger’s ability to play all three outfield spots and even fill in at first base made him a valuable everyday presence for the Yankees’ postseason push.

For the Phillies, Bellinger’s left-handed power and defensive range would check multiple boxes. He could slot into either corner or cover center field when needed, giving Rob Thomson flexibility if the incumbents continue to struggle offensively. His athleticism would also be a noticeable defensive upgrade over Castellanos, while his improved approach at the plate fits Philadelphia’s goal of becoming less strikeout prone.

The question, as always, will be cost. Bellinger is represented by agent Scott Boras, who’s expected to push for a long-term deal in the $180–200 million range after Bellinger’s strong 2025 campaign in New York.

Trade Market Options

If free agency doesn’t align financially or competitively, the Phillies could pivot to the trade market — where several intriguing names have already surfaced. As Bowden noted, Duran, Kwan, and Adell are among the potential fits.

Duran offers a high-energy leadoff profile with speed and improving contact skills, though Boston’s asking price will be steep given his recent breakout. Kwan, one of baseball’s most disciplined hitters, would immediately strengthen Philadelphia’s on-base and defensive metrics in the outfield, but Cleveland’s controllable talent comes at a premium. Adell, meanwhile, remains a high-upside player — a former top prospect whose raw tools could benefit from a change of scenery and the Phillies’ development infrastructure.

Each player presents a different balance of cost, control, and ceiling. For a Phillies team trying to remain in a win-now window without adding another massive long-term contract, the trade route could be a more creative solution.

The Front Office’s Quandary

Dombrowski has never shied from aggressive roster reconstruction, and this offseason could be no different. Whether through a blockbuster free-agent addition like Tucker or Bellinger, or a targeted trade for a controllable young outfielder, Philadelphia’s goal is clear: add athleticism, improve defense, and bring more lineup balance around Bryce Harper and Trea Turner.

And make no mistake — signing or trading for a player of that caliber would certainly take the sting off letting Kyle Schwarber walk in free agency. Schwarber’s power and leadership have defined much of the club’s recent identity, but finding a more complete, two-way outfielder could mark the evolution the Phillies need to finally get over the October hump.

With pitching depth largely set and the core locked in long-term, the corner outfield represents the Phillies’ final piece in turning perennial playoff appearances into a championship breakthrough.