The Philadelphia Phillies are heading into what promises to be an eventful offseason, one that could feature both reunions and farewells. Two key players to keep an eye on are Kyle Schwarber and J.T. Realmuto, both of whom have been vital to the team’s success in recent years—but it’s possible not both will return. Schwarber, in particular, is expected to draw a significant contract.
According to Foul Territory, “Kyle Schwarber’s market sounds like five years, $150M–$170M, from what Jim Bowden is hearing.”
Schwarber showcased one of baseball’s most powerful bats this season, while Realmuto continued to shine defensively, cementing his reputation as one of the game’s premier catchers. His elite glove work could make him especially appealing on the open market, which might complicate Philadelphia’s efforts to retain him.
“The Athletic’s Matt Gelb reports, ‘Some rival executives expect Realmuto to draw more free-agent interest this winter than Kyle Schwarber. That’s not to suggest Realmuto will receive a larger deal than Schwarber; he won’t. But the sheer number of teams interested in Realmuto could boost his market.’”
Because of that, Bleacher Report’s Joel Reuter has suggested that the Phillies might look to acquire Adley Rutschman from the Baltimore Orioles.
“Adley Rutschman looked like a franchise cornerstone in Baltimore just a few years ago,” Reuter wrote. “But after the team signed young catcher Samuel Basallo to an eight-year extension in August, and with Rutschman approaching free agency after the 2027 season, it’s fair to wonder if that’s still the case. Trading for Rutschman would fit perfectly with Philadelphia’s narrowing championship window. He could hold down the catcher spot for the next two seasons, and if the roster needs to be retooled later, his contract would be off the books.”
Rutschman’s switch-hitting ability and overall talent would make him a strong fit in Philadelphia—whether or not Realmuto stays. As the Phillies’ window for contention narrows, bold moves like these could be what keeps them in the fight for another title.