The Philadelphia Phillies' most important decision this winter will be whether they can re-sign Kyle Schwarber to a long-term deal. While they might be the favorites, there's no guarantee that he's coming back.
Teams like the Cincinnati Reds and New York Mets are interested, and the Phillies will have to contend with plenty of other clubs in Schwarber's free agency. But if he does depart, the Phillies have a plan.
Pivoting to Kyle Tucker is a well-known alternative, but recently, MLB Network insider Jon Morosi shared that there's another star outfielder who the Phillies are interested in if Schwarber departs for a new team this winter.
Phillies have a non-Kyle Tucker plan B if Kyle Schwarber leaves in free agency
"Cody Bellinger is a very popular name right now," Morosi said. "And for the Phillies, he is good insurance if Kyle Schwarber goes elsewhere.
Yankees? Mets? Phillies? Dodgers?@jonmorosi provides an update on the active market for free agent Cody Bellinger. Pic.twitter.com/X8jVnnhgSV
— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) December 3, 2025
Cody Bellinger is coming off a strong season with the New York Yankees. The former Los Angeles Dodgers MVP will have plenty of suitors, including the Yankees, Dodgers, and Mets. But the Phillies could also be big suitors for the 30-year-old outfielder.
In 152 games in 2025, Bellinger had a 5.2 bWAR with 160 hits, 89 runs scored, 25 doubles, five triples, 29 home runs, 98 RBIs, a.272 batting average, and an.813 OPS.
Bellinger's 2025 campaign was strong, and he will now have plenty of teams ready to spend big on his services this offseason.
More: Why Kyle Schwarber free agent rumor is bad news for Phillies
The Phillies might not go after Bellinger if they re-sign Schwarber, but if the fan-favorite designated hitter departs, Bellinger will be an alternative option in free agency.
His offensive prowess is encouraging, but with his great defense in the outfield, the Phillies could land a huge improvement to their defense and also acquire a strong hitter.
Losing Schwarber would sting, but if Tucker or Bellinger came to Philadelphia, it wouldn't be the worst outcome for the Phillies.
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