The Pittsburgh Pirates are one of the most discussed teams in the entire MLB, and this offseason has them fast approaching a $100 million payroll that they’ve never had before. Jesse Rogers from ESPN just predicted an acquisition for them to get Nick Castellanos:
“The Pirates still need hitting, right? And Castellanos still needs a new home. How about an in-state swap with the big-spending Phillies picking up most of the contract — say $15 million of the $20 million owed to Castellanos in 2026. The Pirates don’t even have to send anyone back in the deal. Just give them his money and watch Castellanos light up PNC Park, proving all the naysayers wrong.”
*Prediction*
Reports earlier in the offseason indicated the Phillies were actively trying to find a trade partner for Castellanos and his $20 million salary, with destinations like the Kansas City Royals even considered before any deal materialized.
Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Pirates, fresh off a 71-91 finish in 2025 and a busy offseason that received mixed grades so far from their offseason. A Castellanos trade could benefit both clubs, and let’s discuss why.
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Why the Phillies Should Trade Nick Castellanos to the Pirates
Philadelphia’s motivation to move Castellanos stems from both performance and roster balance. Although once known for producing above-average offense, Castellanos’ 2025 campaign saw him hit just .250 with 17 home runs and 72 RBIs, and his overall impact declined as the season went on.
Combined with the Phillies signing Adolis Garcia and re-signing other key contributors, Philadelphia finds itself with multiple outfield pieces and limited roster spots, making a move for Castellanos logical.
That’s where the Pirates come in. Pittsburgh’s offseason attempts to improve an anemic offense earned B and B+ grades from some evaluators, thanks to additions like Brandon Lowe and Ryan O’Hearn.
But even with those acquisitions, fans and analysts alike have noted that the Pirates still lack consistent middle-of-the-order pop and veteran leadership, two areas where Castellanos could immediately make an impact. In a lineup that struggled to score runs in 2025 and finished at the bottom of the National League Central, adding a proven bat with postseason experience would help balance Pittsburgh’s offensive profile.
For the Pirates, the acquisition of someone with Castellanos’ track record, would signal a commitment to competitiveness while still building around a younger core.
With the Pirates still searching for offensive consistency, this trade could be the type of mid-tier, mutually beneficial swap both clubs need.
Nick Castellanos Stats
In 147 games during the 2025 season, Castellanos hit .250 with 17 home runs, 72 RBIs, and a .694 OPS, playing a solid but unspectacular role in Philadelphia’s lineup.