Philadelphia Phillies’ J.T. Realmuto, left, and Alec Bohm celebrate after scoring off a double hit by Nick Castellanos (Image via AP Photo) The Philadelphia Phillies may look to reshape their outfield after releasing Nick Castellanos, and one proposed trade suggests Minnesota Twins center fielder Byron Buxton could be the replacement. The idea has drawn attention because it addresses a clear roster need while giving Philadelphia another proven hitter.Castellanos still had a $20 million salary for 2026, but his departure creates space for a defensive and offensive reset. Bringing in Buxton would likely move Brandon Marsh and Adolis Garcia into adjusted roles while stabilizing center field.
Proposed Deal Reflects Philadelphia Phillies’ Win-Now Approach
In the suggested trade, Philadelphia Phillies would receive Buxton, who is signed through 2028 on a seven-year, $100 million contract worth about $15 million annually before incentives. Minnesota would get reliever Orion Kerkering, outfield prospect Justin Crawford, and additional mid-level prospects.Kerkering is already on the 40-man roster and has developed into a dependable bullpen arm. Crawford is viewed as a potential everyday player. Castellanos is not part of the deal but is the reason the opening exists.The structure fits Minnesota’s direction after its post-2025 reset, where the club has shown interest in younger talent. Phillies president Dave Dombrowski, meanwhile, has continued to focus on upgrades before spring training.
Byron Buxton’s Production Addresses Multiple Needs
Philadelphia Phillies’ Nick Castellanos runs after hitting a double to score Alec Bohm and J.T. Realmuto (Image via AP Photo)
Byron Buxton hit .264 with an .878 OPS and 35 home runs in 2025 while providing strong defense. His range, arm strength, and speed would improve Philadelphia’s outfield coverage, and his contract does not heavily restrict payroll.He would join a lineup that already includes Trea Turner and Bryson Stott, giving the Phillies another middle-order option in a competitive NL East.Durability remains the primary concern. Buxton played 126 games last season, one of the healthier years of his career, but injuries have affected him before. He also has a no-trade clause that would need approval, though it is considered waivable.
Minnesota Twins Would Add Youth and Financial Flexibility
For Minnesota Twins, the return would support a longer-term plan centered on future contention rather than immediate results. Crawford adds upside to the farm system, and Kerkering strengthens pitching depth.The move would also clear more than $15 million from payroll, allowing the Twins to invest in younger players such as Brooks Lee or Luke Keaschall. The drawback is losing a player coming off a high-level season and creating a gap in center field.
2025 Performance Comparison
Stat (2025)Byron Buxton (MIN)Nick Castellanos (PHI) Games 126 ~138 AVG/OBP/SLG .264/.327/.551 .252/.296/.404 HR/RBI 35/83 16-17/66-70 wOBA .367 .303 Barrel % 17.6% 7.6% Hard Hit % 53.8% 34.5% EV (mph) 92.5 87.8Buxton ranked among the league leaders in OPS and won a Silver Slugger. Castellanos graded below average defensively and posted only mid-range sprint numbers.
Player Demographics Snapshot
PlayerAge (Feb 2026)Height/WeightBats/Throws Byron Buxton 32 6’2”/190 lbs R/R Nick Castellanos 33-34 ~6’4”/240 lbs R/RBuxton’s speed and smaller frame differ from Castellanos’ power-focused build, a contrast reminder of the defensive shift Philadelphia could make.
Trade Evaluation
Philadelphia Phillies Pros
• More power with 35 home runs compared to Castellanos’ 17 • Better defense across the outfield • Salary remains manageable despite Castellanos’ dead money
Phillies Cons
• Injury history • No-trade clause requires approval
Minnesota Twins Pros
• Prospect return supports the rebuild • Payroll space increases
Twins Cons
• Loss of a top player • Less depth in center fieldIf completed, the trade would strengthen Philadelphia in the short term by adding production and defense to a team expected to contend. Minnesota would gain future pieces but give up immediate impact.Also read: MLB trade rumors: New York Yankees might chase #300 million Philadelphia Phillies 8x All-Star to for strong roster and improve title oddsA healthy Buxton could raise the Phillies’ ceiling in 2026 and help them keep pace in a competitive division.