The Philadelphia Phillies are heading into a very important offseason, and one of their top targets this winter is to re-sign fan-favorite designated hitter Kyle Schwarber.
Coming off a career year with 56 home runs and 132 RBIs, Schwarber will have plenty of suitors this winter. And while the Phillies are viewed as the favorites to bring Schwarber back, the most recent update is a slightly concerning one.
According to insider Todd Zolecki of MLB.com, the Phillies and Schwarber are currently "not close" to a new contract. It's still early in the offseason, but it's a slightly concerning update for the Phillies' biggest priority this winter.
Phillies 'not close' in contract talks with Kyle Schwarber
"The club and Schwarber are not close to a deal, according to sources," Zolecki reports. "It isn't a surprise at this time of year. Schwaber's agents want to capitalize on his monstrous 2025 season in which he finished second for NL MVP behind Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani."
Philadelphia can't afford to lose Schwarber, as he's too good a hitter to see walk in free agency. Even though players like Pete Alonso and Munetaka Murakami could be decent replacements, the Phillies' best bet is to re-sign Schwarber this offseason.
But, heading into Thanksgiving weekend, the Phillies and Schwarber are reportedly still far apart in contract talks.
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Schwarber will be 33 years old on Opening Day and heading into his 12th season in the Major Leagues. While there's some concern over a long-term deal, the Phillies have through 2027 to contend, and letting Schwarber walk would put them in a tricky spot.
Zolecki still mentions that, "The feeling here is that Schwarber will remain in Philadelphia." But, until the signing is official, or the two sides get closer to a deal, there's still a chance that they could lose the fan-favorite slugger in free agency this winter.
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