There's no more important free agent for the Philadelphia Phillies this offseason than Kyle Schwarber. The designated hitter would be a massive hole to fill if he leaves for another team this winter.
While the Phillies are strongly linked to Schwarber, some other clubs have emerged as potential suitors, with none being more apparent than the hometown Cincinnati Reds.
Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic highlighted the Reds' interest in Schwarber and how the DH is interested in a hometown return. But Rosenthal also notes the massive advantage the Phillies hold over the Reds: Philadelphia has a much better contract offer.
Phillies have a distinct advantage over Reds in Kyle Schwarber free agent talks
"The Cincinnati Reds are serious about signing free-agent designated hitter Kyle Schwarber," Rosenthal writes. "He is interested in a possible homecoming, according to people briefed on his thinking."
This report from Rosenthal indicates that a Reds-Schwarber contract can't be ruled out this offseason. But, there's a major hurdle for the Reds to make this free agent deal work, and it revolves around the Phillies' contract offer.
"The problem for Cincinnati is that the Philadelphia Phillies almost certainly will offer Schwarber more money," Rosenthal writes.
More: Why Kyle Schwarber free agent rumor is bad news for Phillies
Schwarber is likely to receive a contract of around $30 million per season across four to five seasons. The Reds, despite their interest in Schwarber, aren't likely to pay such money for him with their president of baseball operations, Nick Krall's, comments.
Cincinnati isn't expected to go past its 2025 payroll, which would leave it with only around $20 million this free agent cycle. Schwarber won't sign for such a small amount, especially since the Phillies are likely to spend the $30 million per year number floating around.
The Reds' interest is real, and Schwarber is open to playing in Cincinnati. But the Phillies' payroll advantage will be a huge leg up in contract talks as both clubs fight over Schwarber's services this winter.
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