The Philadelphia Phillies made a big move on Wednesday, signing Kyle Schwarber to a four-year deal.
But they do not appear to be done spending money.
According to Jon Morosi of MLB Network, the Phils are eyeing one of the top free agents still left on the market, that being outfielder Nick Castellanos.
Morosi reported Friday morning that talks between Castellanos and the Phillies were “progressing” and that the Phils were in “serious pursuit” of the free agent outfielder, even after the Schwarber signing.
Castellanos hit 34 home runs and batted .309 with the Cincinnati Reds in 2021.
He opted out of his four-year deal to become a free agent.
#Phillies and free agent Nick Castellanos "progressing" in talks on a contract, source confirms. Credit to @jaysonst for reporting on the Phillies' "serious pursuit" of Castellanos earlier this morning. @MLBNetwork @MLB
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) March 18, 2022
Phillies Trying To Win
This would be a good win-now move for the Phillies.
Philadelphia finished over .500 for the first time since 2011 last year, going 82-80 and finishing second in the NL East, but have yet to make it to the postseason in the last ten years.
Castellanos would certainly help them get on a path to potentially change that.
An outfield that consists of Schwarber, Bryce Harper, and Odubel Herrera is already pretty solid.
Castellanos would likely slot in as the DH.
Imagine him in the same lineup as Schwarber, Harper, Rhys Hoskins, and J.T. Realmuto.
A move such as this would put the Phillies in a position to become a strong contender for an NL East title, or at least a Wild Card, with an extra spot being added to each league thanks to the new CBA.
If the Phillies do sign him, they’ll be going over the luxury tax threshold, but if they want to end their postseason drought, signing Castellanos would be a good start as they look to finally build a winning ballclub.
NEXT: Kyle Schwarber Has A New Home In The National League