Former Cubs outfielder Nicholas Castellanos and the Cincinnati Reds agree to a four-year contract, reportedly worth $64 million with an opt out after the first season, per Jon Heyman.
After spending his first six and a half big league seasons in Detroit, he made his way to the Cubs at the trade deadline, where he his a whopping .321 in 51 games with 16 homers and 36 RBI, and a 1.5 WAR.
The offseason leading into the 2020 season has been a success for general manager Nick Krall and staff. On top of the Castellanos signing, they have also signed starter Wade Miley, second baseman Mike Moustakas, and Japanese outfielder Shogo Akiyama. Add the acquisition of right-hander Trevor Bauer at the trade deadline back in August, the Cincinnati Reds are attempting to build a contender.
On top of the acquisition of Castellanos, the Reds are also reportedly shopping outfielder/shortstop Nick Senzel, per Jon Heyman. Coming into the 2019 campaign, Senzel was the fifth ranked prospect in all of baseball, according to MLB.com.
The relationship between Senzel and Cincinnati have not had the best of relationships during their time together. Prior to Opening Day last season, Senzel was sent down as the team left spring training to help save an extra season of service time, unlike Pete Alonso. Senzel took exception to that, and was very vocal about it. With a crowded infield and outfield, moving Senzel is something that could help the Reds add to their roster that has already improved immensely.
