During the MLB postseason, it's often fun to see what sorts of celebratory expressions players will make to their teammates after a big play. But Phillies slugger Nick Castellanos raised eyebrows with his gesture toward the home dugout during Game 1 of the National League Wild Card Series.
In the fourth inning, Castellanos doubled off Marlins pitcher Jesús Luzardo. As the outfielder stood on second base, he raised a finger on his right hand and directed it to his teammates. To most observers, it appeared that Castellanos was making an obscene gesture. Even fellow Phillies thought they were being flipped off.
Kyle Schwarber said when he saw Castellanos hold up a finger he was like “is he flipping us off?” Then he watched the replay back and counted the fingers to confirm it was actually the ring finger.
— Chelsea Janes (@chelsea_janes) October 4, 2023
Castellanos: “That [a ring] is why we’re playing this month.”