The Phillies and top star have engaged in broad discussions about a contract extension this spring, according to Matt Gelb of The Athletic. He stated he was open to talks but was unaware of any ongoing negotiations. While discussions have now begun, Gelb reports there is no indication of an imminent deal.
Top star is entering the final year of his four-year, $79 million contract, which has been a strong investment for the Phillies. Over the past three seasons, he has slashed .221/.344/.488 with 131 home runs, trailing only Aaron Judge and Shohei Ohtani in total homers during that span.
Known for his extreme offensive profile, key star pairs elite power and walk rates with a high strikeout rate of nearly 30%. Despite his unconventional approach as a leadoff hitter, he has been a key offensive presence for Philadelphia.
If the Phillies let him walk, they would lose a significant bat. The key question is how much they are willing to invest in him as he enters his mid-30s. He turns 32 next week, meaning an extension would cover his age-33 seasons and beyond. Given his defensive limitations—he started just five games in left field last season—keeping him would likely mean keeping Nick Castellanos in right field through 2026 instead of shifting him to DH.
He is also taking reps at first base this spring, potentially filling in for Bryce Harper at times. While he may still play some left field, most of his starts will likely come as a DH due to his below-average defense.
For 2025, Schwarber will earn $20 million and could receive a qualifying offer if he has a strong season. However, because of the Phillies’ luxury tax status, the draft compensation they would receive if he leaves would be minimal.
A four-year extension may be a tough sell, as similar players at his age have typically received three-year deals. Recent contracts for comparable sluggers, such as Teoscar Hernández, Christian Walker, and José Abreu, suggest Schwarber could land a three-year deal with a higher annual value than his current $19.75 million average salary.
The Phillies already have several expensive contracts on the books, including Zack Wheeler ($42M per year through 2027), Bryce Harper, Trea Turner, and Aaron Nola, whose deals run into the 2030s. They are also considering extensions for key players like J.T. Realmuto and Ranger Suárez, adding to their financial considerations.
Philadelphia’s competitive balance tax payroll sits around $308 million, placing them in the highest penalty tier for luxury tax repeat offenders. While their estimated 2026 tax payroll is lower at $185 million, arbitration raises for players like Alec Bohm, Jesús Luzardo, Bryson Stott, and Brandon Marsh will impact that number.