Philadelphia Phillies designated hitter Kyle Schwarber is putting together an MVP-level campaign, topping the National League with 40 home runs and 94 RBI while boasting a .965 OPS and 160 OPS+. With free agency looming at season’s end, the only question now is how high his payday will climb.
On The Phillies Show podcast, MLB.com’s Todd Zolecki projected the kind of blockbuster deal Schwarber could land this winter.
“I think Kyle Schwarber can get $30 million on the open market for sure. I’m going to say $35 million,” Zolecki said.
The Phillies and Schwarber discussed an extension last offseason but made little headway. Still, the three-time All-Star has repeatedly expressed his desire to stay in Philadelphia, and owner John Middleton recently vowed the club would “do everything we can to keep him.
Zolecki isn’t worried about Schwarber walking away.
“I think there’s a very good chance he re-signs… the Phillies know they need to re-sign him. They have every incentive in the world to re-sign him.”
If Zolecki’s prediction is right, Schwarber’s next contract could be worth four years and $140 million, or five years and $175 million.
The Phillies landed him at a bargain with a four-year, $79 million deal before the 2022 season. Since then, Schwarber has crushed 171 home runs, posted an .858 OPS and 134 OPS+, and cemented his place as both a fan favorite and the club’s undisputed leader.
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