WASHINGTON — Over the past six months, there were times when Nick Castellanos found himself typing messages with his thumbs. Something—be it mental or physical—was troubling the 32-year-old outfielder. He would draft a text to send to Rob Thomson.
Hey, I think I might need a day.
It was Thomson who had initially planted this notion in Castellanos’ mind. The Phillies manager didn’t give it much thought at that moment. Now, he can acknowledge that he observed several veteran players during batting practice on Opening Day. “Hey, 162,” Thomson said to them. Castellanos wasn’t the only one; however, he pointed back to Thomson that afternoon. He had never considered playing 162 games as a target before, but there was something appealing about it.
Whenever he felt uncertain about reaching that milestone, he would simply sit and reflect.
“But,” Castellanos admitted, “I just could never convince myself to send the text.”
This Sunday, Castellanos will make history as the oldest Phillies player to appear in all 162 games within a single season since Pete Rose in 1982. This marks just the 16th occurrence since 1961, when the league introduced an extended schedule, that a player for the Phillies has accomplished this feat.
Castellanos might be the only player in Major League Baseball to participate in all 162 games this season. Three other players—Matt Olson, Marcell Ozuna, and Pete Alonso—have a chance to join him, provided both games of a Braves-Mets doubleheader take place on Monday. It appears to be an increasingly rare achievement.
About a month into the season, when Castellanos was struggling with a dreadful start, Thomson recognized how crucial 162 was to his outfielder. He had the option to bench Castellanos, but he chose not to. If it was significant to Castellanos, it held value for the manager as well—within reason.
“Absolutely,” Thomson affirmed. “It indeed matters. At a certain point, my feelings on it become secondary. Perhaps I might need to adjust my approach. However, he kept improving as the season progressed. So, what do you do?”
It’s not just that Castellanos managed to play all 162 games; he also made substantial gains as the season progressed. He concluded April with a .193/.258/.263 batting average. Since then, he has hit .268/.323/.467. He registered a .276 average in June, .275 in July, .275 in August, and .292 in September. While he isn’t flawless—the Phillies had hoped he would have a higher slugging percentage and occasionally chases pitches outside the zone—if Castellanos maintains steady performance during the postseason, he will be an asset. His two-strike approach has notably improved.
He was always present. Thomson’s idea lingered in Castellanos’ mind. “When he sets his sights on something,” utilityman Weston Wilson remarked, “he’s determined to see it through.” How impactful can a strong idea be once it takes root in Castellanos’ mind?
“That’s an intriguing question, brother,” Castellanos responded. “How impactful can it be? That largely depends on the obsessive-compulsive tendencies of the person who has the idea.”
Phillies manager Rob Thomson congratulates Nick Castellanos after a walk-off hit in June. (Bill Streicher / Imagn Images)
Until his 186th plate appearance this season, including spring training, Castellanos had not recorded a single double. This fact troubled him. On May 6, he made a solid connection with a fastball, driving it 388 feet into right-center field at Citizens Bank Park. Turning toward the Phillies dugout, he pointed to his left foot on second base.
As the inning concluded with Castellanos left on base, he passed his helmet to first-base coach Paco Figueroa. “Hey,” Castellanos remarked, “I finally got my first double.” Figueroa acknowledged him with a nod.
“You’re still going to finish with 30,” Figueroa replied.
Just last week, after Castellanos drilled his 30th double of the season to left field, he reminded Figueroa of his earlier prediction. The coach had forgotten. “Pretty cool,” Figueroa responded. The two, both hailing from Miami, spend many afternoons together in the outfield throughout the season but had never discussed the number 162.
“I’m proud of him as a player and as a person,” Figueroa expressed. “And when I say proud, I mean like a son. I’ve witnessed his dedication and accomplishments. I’m genuinely happy for him.”
Figueroa is only nine years older than Castellanos.
“But sometimes, the way he behaves, he feels like my kid,” Figueroa added. “He jokes around with me, and I respond in kind. That’s what makes for a strong relationship.”
The journey began long before the start of spring training. Last winter, Castellanos took jiu-jitsu lessons with his son Liam and increased the intensity of his off-season training. He remarked that he is generally more active during the off-season than in-season. However, in mid-May, he stumbled upon a routine that felt right, which included additional afternoon workouts—particularly one-on-one batting practices on the field.
“It’s all about having the discipline to engage with your body every day,” Castellanos noted. “I aim to understand my body better than the trainers do.”
Castellanos stretches in the outfield before a game. (Charles LeClaire / Imagn Images)
Nick Castellanos was a rookie in 2014 with the Detroit Tigers, a team rich in experience, featuring stars like Miguel Cabrera, Torii Hunter, Ian Kinsler, and Victor Martinez. Their success set a benchmark for him.
This season, he played only five games as a designated hitter.
“I believe I’ve taken, at most, eight Voltaren pills since the season began,” Castellanos remarked. “Maybe around 10 Advil. I’m quite satisfied with how I feel physically as I get older.”
The demands of a long season have validated this sentiment.
“There are many ways people could have approached it differently than he did,” said Kyle Schwarber. “He just kept pushing, consistently showing up to work and trying to unravel the challenges he faced. Others might have opted for an easier path, and that’s where he earns respect. He has navigated it all the right way.”
As left-handed reliever Matt Strahm noted: “Knowing Nick over the past two years doesn’t surprise me at all. It’s all about his mentality—what he desires from this game and the effort he invests in it.”
“When he puts his mind to something,” Weston Wilson said of Castellanos, “he’s going to make it work.” (Peter Aiken / Imagn Images)
According to Castellanos, the mental challenges presented by a 162-game season greatly surpass the physical ones. The new season kicks off on Saturday, as the Phillies prepare to host Game 1 of the National League Division Series. In the 2023 NLDS, Castellanos played a pivotal role for the team, but he struggled during the NLCS.
The pursuit of a championship is paramount. Achieving that will require steadfast and diligent effort over the course of a month.
“He serves as a model for our entire team,” Figueroa expressed. “To me, he has always represented the silent leader of our group. And it’s just…
Leading by example is exactly what he embodies. Nick presents himself the same way every single day. Regardless of whether he’s struggling or thriving, he remains consistent.
In 2024, Castellanos put this to the test. He understands that time always prevails. Yet, for half a year, he resisted its effects.
“This,” Castellanos remarked, “has been the season that called for the greatest perseverance on my part.”
GO DEEPER
How the Phillies plan to stay sharp during their first-round bye before the NLDS
GO DEEPER
Will Braves first baseman Matt Olson be the last MLB Iron Man of the 21st century?
GO DEEPER
In his first base office, Bryce Harper pays it forward with MLB’s young hitters
(Top photo: Rich von Biberstein / Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
Nick Castellanos: The Relentless Pursuit of Playing 162 Games
Nick Castellanos, the talented outfielder known for his remarkable hitting prowess and passion for the game, has made a name for himself in Major League Baseball (MLB). His steadfast determination to play all 162 games in a season showcases not only his dedication but also the importance of durability and resilience in professional sports.
Understanding the 162-Game Grind
The MLB regular season consists of 162 games, a demanding schedule that tests players physically and mentally. For many athletes, playing every game is a significant milestone that reflects their commitment to the sport. Let’s explore some key reasons why Castellanos aims to play every single game.
- Consistency and Rhythm: Playing regularly helps players maintain their performance level and develop a rhythm that can be crucial for success.
- Team Contribution: A player’s consistent presence can significantly influence the team’s overall performance and morale.
- Fan Engagement: Fans appreciate seeing their favorite players on the field, contributing to the overall excitement of the season.
Nick Castellanos’ Journey in MLB
Nick Castellanos was drafted by the Detroit Tigers in 2010 and made his MLB debut in 2013. Over the years, he has played for several teams, including the Chicago Cubs and the Cincinnati Reds, before landing with the Philadelphia Phillies. His career statistics reflect his impressive hitting ability, marked by a high batting average and consistent home run production.
Career Highlights
| Year | Team | Games Played | Batting Average | Home Runs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 | Detroit Tigers | 157 | .273 | 11 |
| 2019 | Detroit Tigers | 151 | .289 | 27 |
| 2021 | Cincinnati Reds | 138 | .309 | 34 |
| 2022 | Philadelphia Phillies | 154 | .286 | 13 |
Benefits of Playing 162 Games
For players like Castellanos, the benefits of playing a full season are manifold:
- Increased Stats: More games mean more opportunities to improve personal statistics, impacting contract negotiations and career longevity.
- Health Benefits: Maintaining a strong physical condition throughout the season helps prevent injuries.
- Leadership Role: Being consistently available makes a player a pillar of strength within the team.
The Mental Fortitude Behind the Grind
Playing 162 games requires immense mental resilience. Castellanos has often spoken about the psychological challenges players face during a long season. Staying focused, managing stress, and maintaining a positive attitude are crucial for success. Here are some strategies Castellanos and other players employ to stay mentally sharp:
Mental Strategies for Endurance
- Mindfulness and Meditation: Many players practice mindfulness techniques to manage stress and remain focused during games.
- Goal Setting: Setting short-term and long-term goals helps keep players motivated and provides a sense of direction.
- Support Systems: Building relationships with teammates and coaches can greatly enhance mental stability, providing a network of support that encourages resilience.
Case Studies: Players Who Achieved the 162-Game Goal
Many players have followed in Castellanos’ footsteps, attempting to play every game in a season. Notable examples include:
- Cal Ripken Jr.: Known for his streak of 2,632 consecutive games played, Ripken set the standard for durability in baseball.
- Lou Gehrig: Another legendary figure, Gehrig played 2,130 consecutive games, showcasing extraordinary toughness and dedication.
- Iron Man of Baseball: Recent players like Hunter Renfroe and Nolan Arenado have also demonstrated the commitment to play all games in specific seasons.
First-Hand Experience: Castellanos’ Commitment
In interviews, Castellanos has openly discussed his relentless pursuit of playing every game. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining physical fitness and employing effective training regimens. Here are some of his insights:
Training Regimen
- Strength Training: Castellanos focuses on building core strength and flexibility to withstand the rigors of a long season.
- Conditioning: Cardio workouts ensure he maintains endurance, allowing him to perform at an optimal level throughout the season.
- Recovery Techniques: Utilizing ice baths, massages, and proper nutrition helps speed up recovery after games.
Challenges Faced in the Pursuit
Despite his best efforts, Castellanos, like any athlete, faces challenges that can prevent him from achieving his goal of playing all 162 games. Some of these challenges include:
- Injuries: Even minor injuries can sideline a player, making it difficult to remain in the lineup.
- Fatigue: The mental and physical fatigue that accumulates over the season can impact performance and health.
- Team Strategy: Coaching decisions may lead to resting players to prepare for critical moments in the season.
Conclusion
Nick Castellanos’ relentless pursuit of playing all 162 games each season not only highlights his dedication to the sport but also serves as inspiration for aspiring athletes. By understanding the benefits, developing mental resilience, and learning from past players, current athletes can prepare for the demands of a long season. Castellanos exemplifies the commitment needed to excel in baseball, making him a true role model for current and future generations.
