Pittsburgh Pirates explore surprising addition of Nick Castellanos for 2026 lineup
The Pittsburgh Pirates are taking a closer look at their roster options for the 2026 season, with aspirations of bolstering their lineup through unexpected avenues. Among the players garnering attention is Philadelphia Phillies outfielder Nick Castellanos, as reported by Jon Heyman of the New York Post.
What Castellanos Brings to the Table
Castellanos, a seasoned 13-year veteran, has made a significant impact on the field since his debut in 2013. Over the course of nearly 1,700 games, he has posted a solid batting average of .272 with an on-base percentage of .321 and a slugging percentage of .464, resulting in an OPS of .785. His career numbers are impressive, as he has accumulated 1,742 hits, 399 doubles, 43 triples, and 250 home runs, alongside 920 RBIs and 432 walks against 1,617 strikeouts.
The outfielder has had standout seasons that have solidified his reputation. In 2021, during his tenure with the Cincinnati Reds, Castellanos delivered a remarkable performance, slashing .309/.362/.576 over 138 games. This effort not only earned him a Silver Slugger Award but also propelled him to his first All-Star selection after hitting a career-high 34 home runs.
More recently, Castellanos showcased his talent with the Phillies in 2023, where he continued to impress with a .272 batting average, an on-base percentage of .311, and a slugging percentage of .476, culminating in an OPS of .787. His power was evident as he belted 29 home runs and recorded a personal best of 106 RBIs, earning him a second All-Star nod.
As the Pirates look to inject fresh talent into their lineup, the potential acquisition of Castellanos could prove to be a transformative move. With his wealth of experience and offensive prowess, he could play a crucial role in reshaping the Pirates’ future as they aim for competitive resurgence in the coming seasons.
