Castellanos Slumps, Padres Consider Cutting Bait

The San Diego Padres thought they pulled off the steel of the offseason by signing former

All-Star Outfielder Nick Castellanos to the league minimum.

The Phillies had released him this winter while still on the hook for $20 million, so AJ,

Preller jumped quick to add that postseason experience to the lineup.

Early on, things looked promising in his first nine games, Castellanos hit 261 with

an OPS of 7-Eleven in five RBIs.

But now, over 48 at-bats, he's down to 146 with a brutal OPS of 404 and negative 0.9 BWAR,

turning into more drag.

Then boost.

The Padres kicked off 2026 at two in five, struggling for power, and fans hoped Castellanos

would spark the lineup.

Instead, he's fighting for played appearances against hot bench guys like Miguel and Duhar,

who's slashing 316 with a 789 OPS.

And tie France at 233.

Meanwhile, the team's Iron KBO import Sungman Song, who signed a 4-year, $15 million deal,

but started on the injured list with an injured list with an injured eye, oblique strain.

As their super utility guy, he's ready to step in if Castellanos keeps slumping.

With Andoar, France, and even Gavin Sheet's producing, the pressure's mounting on the veteran.

At minimum cash, they could cut bait easy, but his 14-year track record buys some time,

so that leash is shortening fast as San Diego pushes.

For wins, that wraps California news today, brought to you with AI.

I'm Corey with The Story.