Kyle Schwarber to Re-Sign with the Phillies

The first Phillies offseason piece has been put into place.  The in-house free agents of interest may have been holding up the offseason, but the wheels are in motion.  According to Jeff Passan of ESPN, the Phillies and slugger Kyle Schwarber have agreed to a new contract.

The deal is for a reported five years and $150 million.

The Phillies had competition for Schwarber, but were always considered favorites for his services.   The Pittsburgh Pirates reportedly offered Schwarber four years.  Schwarber's hometown Cincinnati Reds were openly showing interest.   And Schwarber at various times was connected to the New York Mets, Boston Red Sox, and others.

It makes sense that the move would happen sooner than later.  The Phillies made no secret of their desire to retain Schwarber, and Schwarber openly expressed interest in returning.  Add in the fact that the Phillies were willing to spend whatever money it takes, it never really seemed like Schwarber was headed anywhere else.

Plus, if nothing else, the Phillies surely did not want Schwarber participating in the 2026 Home Run Derby at Citizens Bank Park in another uniform.

The Phillies remained interest in retaining catcher J.T. Realmuto and have some work to do in their outfield and in their bullpen.   But at least their home run-hitting designated hitter is settled.