The Philadelphia Phillies are gearing up for significant roster moves this winter, and the biggest name to watch is undoubtedly Kyle Schwarber, coming off an MVP-caliber season. However, bringing him back could carry considerable risk.
“The Phillies should not re-sign Schwarber to a multi-year contract. Not signing him will hurt the club offensively and the front office would need to have a plan to replace the home run hitter. However, what if they bring him back for multiple years and he begins to decline? Either decision brings a certain amount of risk,” TBOH’s Matt Grazel wrote. “This roster needs substantial changes. While unpopular and risky, the decision not to re-sign Schwarber represents the best chance for Dombrowski to shake up the roster, which is necessary at this point.”
If the Phillies do move on, there is a real possibility that the New York Mets could swoop in for Schwarber.
“This would be the Phillies’ worst nightmare — Schwarber leaving Philadelphia for National League East rival New York Mets. The Mets embarrassingly missed the postseason after having the best record in baseball at one point. Owner Steve Cohen will do whatever it takes to bring a World Series championship back to Queens, and signing Schwarber would move them closer, especially if the Mets lose Pete Alonso in free agency. A lineup of Schwarber, Francisco Lindor, and Juan Soto would be incredibly dangerous,” Sportsnaut’s Matt Higgins wrote.
If the Mets pursue Schwarber, it will come with a hefty price tag for a designated hitter.
“According to Scott Lauber of The Philadelphia Inquirer, the expectation is that Schwarber is seeking a five-year deal close to $30 million annually. That could end up around the $150 million range by the time he puts pen to paper. It’s a lot of money to attribute to any slugger, given he’ll turn 33 next season,” TBOH’s Matt Davis wrote.
The Mets are at risk of losing a power bat in Pete Alonso, so signing Schwarber would allow Mark Vientos to move to first base. Seeing Schwarber in a Mets uniform would be an unusual sight for Phillies fans.
This move could significantly boost the Mets’ playoff chances after a disappointing season. Nonetheless, every team will maintain a backup plan, just in case.
