The Philadelphia Phillies’ offseason could unfold in one of two extremes — either very good or very bad. The ideal outcome would see them keep their core intact, but the alternative could involve losing key players. Chief among those decisions is whether to re-sign Kyle Schwarber, whose return would come with a hefty price tag.
“He’s going to command a massive contract, and the Phillies might need to meet a high number to keep him from signing elsewhere — potentially around five years and $150 million, averaging $30 million per season. Some believe he could even push for more,” wrote Matt Davis of That Ball’s Outta Here (TBOH).
Still, retaining Schwarber carries significant risk, and moving on from him might actually be the wiser move.
“The Phillies shouldn’t re-sign Schwarber to a long-term deal. Losing him would hurt the lineup, and the front office would need a plan to replace his power bat.
But if they bring him back for multiple years and he declines, that’s an even bigger problem,” argued TBOH’s Matt Grazel. “This roster needs real change. As unpopular as it may be, letting Schwarber walk gives Dombrowski the best chance to reshape the team — and that’s what’s needed now.”
Should Schwarber test free agency, MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand views the Texas Rangers as a logical fit.
“Players entering their age-33 season don’t usually rank this high, but Schwarber is an exception. His elite power led the National League with 56 home runs and 132 RBIs while playing all 162 games, producing career highs in both bWAR (4.7) and fWAR (4.9). While he can play left field occasionally, he’s primarily a full-time DH who can instantly strengthen any lineup,” Feinsand noted.
For Texas, Schwarber would represent a clear upgrade over Joc Pederson, who endured one of the roughest starts of his career last season. With the financial flexibility to afford Schwarber’s asking price, the Rangers could see such a move reignite their playoff hopes.
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