The Philadelphia Phillies are focused on making a run at the World Series this season, but when free agency arrives, they could lose some key players.
Kyle Schwarber will be a free agent after the season, and the Phillies could lose him. He signed a four-year, $79 million deal with the Phillies in 2022 and has been a key part of their recent success. However, the aging veteran will demand a big contract, and the Phillies may not be able to match other offers he may receive.
He provides next to no defensive value, but his production at the plate is where he makes his money. He has hit 153 home runs for the Phillies, but he may finally end up on a new team. The Red Sox saved over $250 million by trading Rafael Devers to the Giants. They can afford to make Schwarber a lucrative offer to be their new designated hitter.
“Bring Schwar-bombs back to Boston! Kyle Schwarber, who was a trade deadline acquisition for the Red Sox in 2021, has done nothing but rake since arriving in Philadelphia,” wrote FanSided’s Drew Koch. “The veteran slugger is defensively limited, but his power is undeniable. After trading their DH to San Fran, perhaps Boston could reestablish some goodwill by bringing another one back to Beantown.”
Schwarber hit seven home runs in 21 games for the Red Sox. His time with the team was short-lived, but he has come back on a longer deal now. The Phillies will try to keep him around, but it will not be easy. Many teams will be willing to pay top dollar for a player like Schwarber.
The Phillies have the fourth-highest payroll in baseball this season. Schwarber figures to earn more annually on his next deal, despite his age, according to ESPN’s Jeff Passan. Losing his power would be a huge blow for the Phillies, but a team like the Red Sox may be desperate enough and have enough money to overpay and secure Schwarber.
