Reds land Nick Castellanos on 4-year deal

Outfielder Nick Castellanos will reportedly head to the Cincinnati Reds on a 4-year deal worth $16 million per year, according to Jon Heyman of MLB Network. The Reds have been aggressive this offseason. So far, they’ve landed Castellanos, Mike Moustakas, Shogo Akiyama and Wade Miley.

Castellanos was traded to the Cubs from the Tigers at the trade deadline last year and played well, upping his average and power numbers and likely playing into his contract with the Reds. Cincinnati has now spent more free agent money this offseason than ever before and are clearly making a run for the NL Central title.

The Reds have been rebuilding for a while now, losing 94 or more games from 2015-18. Their 75-87 wasn’t where they wanted to be last season, but with the additions they’ve made so far, they could be favored by some to take the division.

Castellanos’ is just 27-years old, which made him a strong target across the league. The Cubs wanted to keep him, but were unable to make it work. It has been a disappointing offseason for Chicago, as they’ve dealt with financial issues and an inability to bring in talent, while their division rivals continue to make moves.