Phillies could sign $210M 5-time All-Star, Rookie of the Year, forcing Bryce Harper's position move

Hunter Cookston

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Phillies could sign $210M 5-time All-Star, Rookie of the Year, forcing Bryce Harper's position move image

The Philadelphia Phillies will have their hands full this winter as they try to construct the best possible roster. One of the biggest names they’ll have to decide on is Kyle Schwarber, but re-signing him could be risky due to his large contract.

“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.”

Instead, the Phillies could target their rival, the New York Mets, and pursue their franchise home run leader Pete Alonso—a move that would certainly be surprising.

“The Phillies could utilize Alonso at first base and Bryce Harper move back to the outfield, a position of need for the team depending on what the front office does this winter,” Bleacher Report’s Eric Beaston wrote.

Such a move would greatly benefit the Phillies, especially if Schwarber is not brought back. Philadelphia has been a desirable place to play over the past couple of seasons. However, signing Alonso would come at a steep price.

“Predicted Contract: 7 years, $210 million,” Bleacher Report’s Joel Reuter wrote.

If Alonso comes to the City of Brotherly Love, Bryce Harper would likely have to return to the outfield. This wouldn’t be a difficult move, as Nick Castellanos is expected to be cut or traded before the 2026 season.

Alonso is one of the best first basemen in the game, making this a major acquisition. The Phillies could deliver a powerful blow to the Mets with this bold move.

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Hunter Cookston

Hunter Cookston began his career as a sportswriter for the Marion Tribune, where he covered local high school football, basketball and baseball. His passion for sports started at the age of four when he played his first year of tee ball. Growing up in Tennessee, he developed a deep love for the Tennessee Volunteers and Atlanta Braves. Hunter is currently attending Tennessee Wesleyan University, where he is pursuing a BA in Sports Communications/Management.