But the Phillies need to focus on re-signing slugger Kyle Schwarber, who recently finished second in the NL MVP voting. Schwarber was one of the best players in the league this season, and the Phillies can’t run the risk of losing him in free agency. Jim Bowden of The Athletic recently predicted Schwarber would sign a massive deal worth $160 million this winter, which could complicate the Phillies’ pursuit of the star.
Matt Johnson of Sportsnaut recently predicted Schwarber would re-sign with the Phillies this winter, which would likely be the highlight of their offseason.
“While he’s now played with four franchises in his major-league career, Kyle Schwarber feels synonymous with the Philadelphia Phillies,” Johnson wrote. “He’s certainly earned the right to get paid after hitting 56 home runs with a .928 OPS in a contract year, often providing a spark when other hitters in the Phillies lineup were slumping. Philadelphia also really can’t afford to lose one of the few bats who has been productive (.930 OPS) for this team in October. We’d be shocked if Schwarber isn’t a part of the Phillies lineup next season and for two to three years beyond.”
Schwarber is a fan favorite in Philadelphia. He should spend the rest of his career with the Phillies, but it’s still unclear if they’re going to be willing to put up the money it would take to retain him.
The Phillies could get caught up chasing a free agent like Alex Bregman, but re-signing Schwarber would make the most sense, especially if they can pair it with the addition of another solid free agent.
