Nick Castellanos

Nicholas Alexander Castellanos, born on March 4, 1992, stands as a prominent figure in the world of Major League Baseball (MLB). Raised by Jorge and Michelle, Nicholas grew up in South Florida where his affinity for baseball began. Throughout his career, Nick has played for several MLB teams, most recently signing with the Philadelphia Phillies as their right fielder and third baseman. However, before arriving in Philadelphia, he was part of the Detroit Tigers, Chicago Cubs, and Cincinnati Reds.

Castellanos’ journey to the big leagues started in high school when the Detroit Tigers chose him in the 2010 draft. This selection clearly signaled the potential that industry insiders saw in him. The high prediction was justified when he was named the most valuable player in the 2012 All-Star Futures Game.

Despite being a top prospect, his debut in an official MLB match wasn’t until September 1, 2013. He played for the Tigers until 2019, when he was traded to the Chicago Cubs. He then signed with Cincinnati Reds for four years in the 2020 season, proving his versatility and adaptability by seamlessly integrating himself into new teams.

His performance in 2021 was remarkable, earning him a spot in the All-Star Game and gaining individual recognition like the Silver Slugger Award. He was also named to the All-MLB Second team. However, at the end of the season, Castellanos decided to opt out of his contract with the Reds and signed a deal with the Philadelphia Phillies for five years.

Castellanos spent his early years in South Florida, raised by his parents. His Cuban roots come from his father’s side, while his mother’s family hails from Michigan. Not too far from home, he played little league baseball in Davie, Florida, where he began honing his skills.

Castellanos attended two high schools where he played for their baseball teams: American Heritage School and Archbishop McCarthy High School. His team at American Heritage won the Florida state championship during his sophomore year. His senior year was outstanding; he finished the season with standout performances, leading his team to a state championship and being named Gatorade Player of the Year for Florida.

In 2009, Castellanos made a name for himself in the Under Armour All-America Baseball Game at Wrigley Field. Winning Most Valuable Player honors, his performance was impactful with three runs, four doubles, and three RBIs. The Sun-Sentinel also recognized him as the Player of the Year in his class.

Continuing his upwards trajectory, in the 2009 Pan American Junior Championships, he represented the United States national baseball team for individuals under 18 years of age. His batting average was .356 with six doubles and nine RBIs. He led all players with 14 runs scored, and the team won the gold medal. For his performance, Castellanos was named to the All-Tournament team.

His love for the game and his extraordinary performance motivated him to secure a baseball scholarship at the University of Miami, where he intended to play for the Miami Hurricanes baseball team in the Atlantic Coast Conference.

In the 2010 Major League Baseball draft, Castellanos was picked by the Detroit Tigers in the second round, 44th pick overall. Despite committing to the University of Miami, Castellanos allowed his love for baseball to overrule, signing with the Tigers for a whopping $3.45 million signing bonus.

Initially playing as a shortstop in high school, Castellanos was moved to third base by the Tigers as a pro. The young star kept improving, building his reputation which saw him rated as the 65th-best prospect in baseball before the 2011 season.

His time with the Tigers saw several highlights, including making it to the Tigers’ minor league player in May 2012, and his appearance at the 2012 All-Star Futures Game where he hit a three-run home run and bagged the MVP title.

Although blocked at third base by Miguel Cabrera and at first base by Prince Fielder, Castellanos later began practicing outfield in left-field and was playing at this position full time by the start of the 2013 season.

Despite initially receiving infrequent playing time, Castellanos made strides in his career and was eventually named the starting third baseman for the Tigers in 2014. His performance earned him the title of 2014 Detroit Tigers/Detroit Sports Media Association Rookie of the Year.

Over the years, his performance improved and he was rewarded multiple times, including earning American League Player of the Week honors in 2018, leading the American League in triples in 2017, and being named the 2018 Tiger of the Year.

After an impressive time with the Tigers, Castellanos was traded to the Chicago Cubs and later joined the Cincinnati Reds in 2020, on a four-year contract valued at $64 million, before finally settling with the Philadelphia Phillies in 2021 on a five-year deal.

Despite his movements in the MLB, Castellanos has cemented his place as an esteemed professional baseball player, carving out a successful career for himself with unmatched skill and unwavering dedication to the sport. Whatever the future might hold, Castellanos’ dedication and natural talent ensure that he remains a player to watch in the MLB.