The Philadelphia Phillies have seized first place in the National League East as they enjoy a five-game winning streak.
The team is facing what might be the final year of World Series contention with its current core of star players, as several notable names could reach free agency this year. Those include fan favorites like JT Realmuto and Ranger Suarez — but the most consequential name on the list is Kyle Schwarber’s.
Schwarber has been one of the most productive hitters in all of baseball since joining the Phillies and shows no signs of slowing down at age 32. As a result, he could command a significant long-term contract from any number of contending teams as a free agent.
“Schwarber is arguably the best teammate in the game, reaches base at a 39 percent clip and is always in the hunt for the home run crown,” Jim Bowden wrote for The Athletic. “He’s a player most teams will covet if they have an opening or flexibility at the DH spot.”
Even with sluggers like Bryce Harper, Trea Turner and Nick Castellanos locked in, it would be hard to imagine the Phillies without Schwarber in the lineup. The team had offered him an extension before the season started, though talks “failed to advance,” per Ken Rosenthal.
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That might have suggested the two sides would be unable to come to an agreement. But Bowden reported that the Phillies have decided to deliver a new offer to their slugger and that they are willing to make it a long-term deal, even as he approaches his mid-30s.
“The Phillies want to retain Schwarber and are prepared to give him a long-term contract at the appropriate time,” Bowden added.
As the Phillies work toward a significant new deal for one of their best players, it seems they have a great chance of retaining him. Schwarber has consistently praised his time with the organization and enjoyed significant playoff runs with the team. Plus, the relationship has clearly been healthy for his bat.
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