As the Phillies push toward the postseason, tensions between outfielder Nick Castellanos and manager Rob Thomson appear to be mounting.
Once a lineup regular, Castellanos has seen a noticeable drop in playing time over the past two months, transitioning into more of a platoon role. He’s started just seven of the team’s 17 games this September. Yet on Friday night, he reminded everyone of his impact—going 2-for-3 with three RBIs, including a two-run homer that marked the 250th of his career, in an 8–2 win over the Diamondbacks.
Still, the postgame mood from Castellanos was anything but celebratory when it came to his manager. Speaking candidly in the clubhouse, he revealed the communication between him and Thomson has been lacking.
“I don’t really talk to Rob that much. I play when he tells me to play, and I sit when he tells me to sit,” Castellanos said. “Over the years, communication has been questionable—at least in my experience. I grew up with someone like my dad, who was blunt, direct, and consistent.”
Despite the strong performance and the team’s win, Castellanos’ comments suggest an ongoing disconnect with the Phillies’ skipper—one that may loom larger as October approaches.
