Phillies Predicted to Move On From $100M All-Star in Blockbuster NL Trade Scenario

The Philadelphia Phillies, long considered one of the most aggressive teams in the National League, may be preparing for one of their boldest offseason decisions yet. Multiple analysts now predict that the club will attempt to offload veteran outfielder Nick Castellanos, a former All-Star with nearly $100 million tied to his contract, as Philadelphia works to reshape its payroll and retain key franchise stars.

Although the Phillies have consistently fielded a playoff-ready roster, the team’s inability to break through and capture a World Series title has heightened the urgency for major changes. With multiple high-profile free agents needing new contracts, Philadelphia may no longer be able or willing to carry Castellanos’ hefty salary into 2026.

The solution, according to a growing number of baseball insiders: a trade to a rebuilding NL club willing to absorb salary in exchange for prospects.

ROCKIES EMERGE AS SURPRISING TRADE PARTNER

Among the potential destinations, one team has emerged as the clearest fit: the Colorado Rockies.

In a recent prediction, MLB analyst Eric Treuden projected that Colorado could step in as the financial facilitator Philadelphia needs. The Rockies, who are nowhere near postseason contention, might be willing to take Castellanos’ contract in full as long as a prospect accompanies him.

Treuden noted that while the Rockies aren’t positioned to win in 2026, they “still have to field a roster of legitimate major leaguers.” By acquiring Castellanos and a young player, Colorado would add a veteran bat for stability while continuing to stockpile future assets.

He also pointed out the Rockies’ history of unusual financial maneuvering, including previous deals in which they absorbed or paid down significant contracts. This time, however, the dynamic would flip: Colorado would get the additional pieces, while Philadelphia would walk away relieved of a costly deal.

For the Phillies, moving Castellanos would be about more than talent it would be a strategic financial reset.

 WHY PHILADELPHIA NEEDS THE MOVE NOW

Philadelphia’s front office faces a delicate challenge this winter. Kyle Schwarber and J.T. Realmuto, two cornerstone players, are both in need of new deals. To maintain their championship window, the Phillies must carve out payroll flexibility quickly.

Unloading Castellanos’ contract one of the biggest on the roster may be the clearest path forward. Though the 32-year-old has produced streaky offense and timely postseason moments, his inconsistency and contract size have made him one of the league’s most difficult players to move.

A salary-shedding trade with Colorado would not only relieve the financial pressure but also allow the Phillies to reinvest aggressively in areas of immediate need, including bullpen depth and lineup protection for Bryce Harper.

For the Rockies, meanwhile, the move could represent a savvy long-term play. While they aren’t ready to compete now, acquiring prospects from Philadelphia in exchange for taking on salary could accelerate their rebuild in ways traditional free agency cannot.

As the offseason heats up, the Phillies’ willingness to make hard decisions and the Rockies’ willingness to absorb money may set the stage for one of the biggest surprise trades of the winter.