The Phillies locked in a major extension last spring by signing Zack Wheeler to a new three-year contract. Could Kyle Schwarber be next?
Speaking with Sports Talk Philly’s Kyle Odegard at the WM Open Pro-Am in Scottsdale, Arizona, Schwarber expressed his desire to remain in Philadelphia beyond 2025.
“I’ve loved my time here,” Schwarber said. “I spent several years with the Cubs, had a one-year stint in Washington, and now Philly feels like home. I’d love to stay as long as possible and hopefully win multiple World Series.”
He also acknowledged that while he’s interested in an extension, it remains to be seen if the Phillies share that sentiment.
Schwarber’s willingness to sign a new deal is significant for the Phillies, who risk losing one of their top hitters and a key clubhouse presence. Since joining the team, he has hit 131 home runs—trailing only Aaron Judge and Shohei Ohtani in total homers since 2022.
His 2024 season was his most complete at the plate. He raised his batting average from .197 in 2023 to .248, significantly improved his OPS against left-handed pitchers, and led the National League with 106 walks. By emphasizing contact and on-base percentage over pure power, Schwarber became a more well-rounded hitter.
His combination of power, patience, and adaptability should make him a valuable designated hitter as he ages. If he reaches free agency, those skills will command attention. For comparison, Joc Pederson, a platoon DH, landed a two-year, $37 million contract with the Rangers. If Schwarber has another strong season, he could justify seeking twice that amount in both years and salary.
A middle-ground solution could be a shorter-term deal with a higher average annual value than the $19.75 million he earned under his current contract.
With Schwarber openly interested in staying, the Phillies have a prime opportunity to secure his future this spring. Whether a deal materializes or not, his desire to remain in Philadelphia is an encouraging sign for the team.