Mandatory Credit: David Kohl-USA TODAY Sports
According to Jon Heyman of MLB Network, Reds outfielder Nick Castellanos has opted out of the final two years of his contract in Cincinnati. The slugger was due to make $34 in that span.
Castellanos, though really suited for the designated hitter, becomes one of the best outfield options in a weak market at the position. The 29-year-old slashed .309/.362/.576 with 38 doubles, 34 home runs, and 100 RBIs in 138 games for the Reds this season.
Castellanos posted a 4.2 fWAR (140 wRC+) and 3.3 bWAR, both career highs. The defensively-challenged right fielder had -7 defensive runs saved and -6 outs above average in 2021. He has -47 DRS in 492 career games in right field after moving off of third base because of his difficulties there defensively (-45 DRS in 527 games).
However, his 126 wRC+ ranks 12th among hitters over the last four seasons. The Scott Boras client has hit at least 36 doubles and 23 home runs in each of the last four full MLB seasons.
The Reds can decide to give Castellanos the qualifying offer, with their deadline to do so coming this Sunday.
Andrew McCutchen joined the free agent market on Wednesday when the Phillies declined his 2022 option. The 35-year-old had a 107 wRC+ in 2021 and he continued to mash lefties with a 1.027 OPS against southpaws.
