Nicholas Castellanos isn't backtracking on comments his agent made about preferring a trade before the start of spring training. However, he's now open to a long-term deal with the Detroit Tigers.
The 26-year-old arrived at Tigers camp in Lakeland, Fla., on Sunday and told reporters, including Chris McCosky of the Detroit News, that he's open to negotiating a new contract.
"Of course I would," he said.
When asked about what his agent David Meter said last month about a potential trade, Castellanos took the time to clear the air, but he didn't retract the comments.
"It doesn’t mean that I don’t love Detroit. It doesn’t mean I don’t love the Tigers. That has nothing to do with that comment," he said.
Castellanos was also asked how some of his family members - who are longtime Tigers fans - would feel if he was traded.
"They love the Tigers, but they love me more," he said. "They want me to be happy and they want what’s best for my family. They understand how important stability is for a child, for a relationship, for mental health in general."
Castellanos will make $9.95 million in 2019 and is scheduled to become a free agent after this season.
The rebuilding Tigers reportedly want a top-level prospect in exchange for Castellanos, who's expected to be traded before the July 31 non-waiver trade deadline.
He hit 23 home runs in 2018 and recorded a .298 batting average, an OPS of .854, and a WAR of 2.9 in 157 games.
