The Phillies face a crucial decision with Kyle Schwarber as the slugger approaches free agency after this season.
Philadelphia has built one of baseball’s most expensive and successful rosters, reaching the playoffs three straight years and making a World Series appearance in 2022. But the team’s core might be changing soon, with Schwarber potentially hitting the open market this winter.
Ken Rosenthal reported earlier this month that the Phillies made an extension offer before the season, but talks “failed to advance” beyond the team’s initial proposal. Rosenthal noted that while Schwarber wants to stay in Philadelphia, he’s “also content playing out his free-agent year” and “would be in demand on the open market” despite turning 33 next season.
Phillies president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski isn’t hiding his desire to keep the power-hitting outfielder. “I absolutely love him; he’s as good a guy as you can put on a ball club,” Dombrowski said during an appearance on MLB Network Radio. “We hope to keep him to be a Phillie for years to come. You can be assured of that.”
Dombrowski made his intentions even clearer with three simple words, saying Schwarber is a player they would “like to stay.”
It’s easy to see why. Schwarber has been a consistent offensive force since joining Philadelphia, launching at least 38 home runs in each season with the club. His left-handed power and veteran leadership have become cornerstones of the Phillies’ identity.
The situation isn’t straightforward, though. There are legitimate questions about how long Schwarber can maintain his power production as he ages. On top of that, the Phillies already have significant financial commitments to stars like Bryce Harper and Trea Turner extending well into the future.
But from Dombrowski’s comments, it seems the Phillies are determined to find a way to keep their slugger beyond 2025. What remains to be seen is whether they’ll increase their offer enough to make that happen before Schwarber tests the market.
