No. 3: Nick Castellanos
Nick Castellanos is not known as a great defender, but 2023 saw the Phillies right fielder surprise his detractors by finishing the season with a perfect 1.000 fielding percentage in 148 games at the position. How many games will Castellano's errorless streak last? That will be a fun thing to watch this season if he's able to continue his new found excellence with the glove.
Castellanos went into 2023 with a lot to prove in his second season in a Phillies uniform. After signing a five-year, $100 million contract, Castellanos' 2022 was a complete disappointment at the plate as he only managed to hit .263, with 13 home runs and 62 RBI. He was quickly labeled a free agent bust by Phillies fans.
Castellanos more than proved his critics wrong last year, as he was the lone position player for the Phillies to make an All-Star appearance. Hitting .272 with 29 home runs and 106 RBI, he was even more surprising in his ability to handle right field on an everyday basis.
Here’s Tom McCarthy’s radio call of Nick Castellanos’ home run 🎙️
— Phillies Nation (@PhilliesNation) October 13, 2023
[via @_piccone]pic.twitter.com/b2AbNCorHk
The 31-year-old remains a core veteran on a team expected to contend year after year. While it's unlikely he'll duplicate his 1.000 fielding percentage in 2024, it's a relief to Phillies fans that he has found a position that fits. With Kyle Schwarber a lock to remain at DH, concerns about his glove are now a thing of the past. Let's hope Castellano continues his resurgence in 2024 and earns his No. 3 position in the Phillies outfield power rankings.