The clock is ticking down on Nick Castellanos time in Philadelphia.

According to reports, the Philadelphia Phillies are actively working the phones in hopes of moving Castellanos before Spring Training opens in Clearwater — and president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski didn’t mince words about the urgency.

After a frustrating 2025 season that included declining production, defensive struggles, and visible tension with the coaching staff, Castellanos appears headed for a fresh start. The problem? His remaining $20 million salary makes finding a trade partner complicated, especially for a player coming off a down year.

Still, Philadelphia is clearly motivated.

Clearing Castellanos’ contract would give the Phillies financial flexibility as they continue reshaping the roster around their core, while also opening right field for younger options or an external upgrade. Sources indicate multiple teams have checked in, though any deal likely requires salary relief or prospect incentives.

For now, Castellanos remains a Phillie, but not for long if Dombrowski has his way.

Whether it’s a trade or a creative financial move, the Phillies are pushing hard to resolve this before camp begins in earnest at the end of the week.