Phillies bench Nick Castellanos for NLDS Game 1, start Max Kepler instead amid lineup changes.

The Philadelphia Phillies have benched right fielder Nick Castellanos for Game 1 of the NLDS against the Dodgers, starting Max Kepler instead. Castellanos, a two-time All-Star and key playoff contributor, saw reduced playing time due to a crowded outfield and reported communication issues with manager Rob Thomson. Though he hit .250 with 72 RBIs in 147 games this season, the decision marks a strategic shift as the Phillies face Dodgers ace Shohei Ohtani. No official reason was given, but Castellanos is expected to enter the game later.