Toronto Blue Jays are not done adding outfielders after latest update
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Victor William
Feb 13, 2026 (6:14 PM)
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Photo credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
The Phillies just did the Blue Jays a massive favor by releasing Nick Castellanos, and Ross Atkins needs to pick up the phone immediately.
In a stunning move reported by Jon Heyman, Philadelphia has officially cut ties with the veteran outfielder, eating the remaining $20 million on his contract.
This means Castellanos is now a free agent available to any team for the pro-rated league minimum.
Heyman specifically listed the Blue Jays as a potential fit, alongside the Padres, A’s, Rangers, and Reds.
Nick Castellanos is being released by Phillies. Potential fits may include Padres, Jays, A’s, Rangers, Reds. Uncertain where interest lies.
For Toronto, this situation screams "low-risk, high-reward."
We know that Anthony Santander is out for months, and while the team claims they aren't "significantly" looking for outfield help, the math changes when the price tag drops to zero.
Castellanos (Drafted 1st Round, 2010 by Tigers) had a down year in 2025, slashing .250 with 17 homers and a .694 OPS.
But at 33 years old, the "professional hitter" still has plenty of thump in his bat, especially against left-handed pitching.
This is the ultimate Ross Atkins value play
Signing him for pennies on the dollar allows the Blue Jays to add a proven veteran presence without sacrificing any prospect capital or budget flexibility.
He doesn't need to be a superstar; he just needs to be a threat in the middle of the order who can drive in runs.
His defense in right field is admittedly an adventure, but as a primary DH or rotational outfielder, he fits perfectly.
With Juan Yepez and Kazuma Okamoto already in the fold, adding Castellanos would give manager John Schneider an abundance of power options to mix and match.
The Phillies' loss could easily be the Blue Jays' gain if a change of scenery reignites his bat.
There is literally no downside to bringing him into camp and seeing if he has one more big season left in the tank.
Let the "Castellanos to Toronto" rumors officially begin.
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