The Philadelphia Phillies keep racking up wins, and NL MVP contender is a big reason why. Top star launched his 41st home run of the year and continues to build on a career-best .962 OPS. His stellar season has been a thrill for fans but is also creating a challenge for the Phillies, as he is slated to hit free agency after 2025.
Since arriving in Philadelphia in 2022, top star has been one of the league’s premier power hitters, fully living up to his four-year, \$79 million contract. To keep their home run leader beyond this season, the Phillies will likely have to commit significantly more money.
Veteran star is making the most of his contract year, posting 41 home runs, 95 RBIs, and a stellar 160 OPS+. Unfortunately for the Phillies, his expiring deal comes at the peak of his production, driving up his price with each game. Estimates suggest he could command a contract in the range of five years and \$150 million — an average of \$30 million per year — with some experts believing he might push for even more.
Such a deal would be substantial given that Schwarber will be 33 next season, meaning it would carry him through his age-37 campaign. Comparable contracts include Jose Altuve’s five-year, \$125 million deal with Houston at age 33, Freddie Freeman’s six-year, \$162 million pact with Los Angeles at 32, Matt Chapman’s six-year, \$151 million agreement with San Francisco at 31, and George Springer’s six-year, \$150 million contract with Toronto at 31. While \$150 million is a major commitment for a player who primarily serves as a designated hitter, Schwarber has shown he’s far from an average bat likely to fade with age.
Talks between the Phillies and Schwarber’s camp stalled last offseason, frustrating fans who flooded Citizens Bank Park with “re-sign Schwarber” signs and blank check cutouts all summer. Hopes of an in-season extension faded as both sides decided he would first explore free agency.
Now, Schwarber has positioned himself to secure a massive payday, and while Philadelphia’s front office waits to see how the market plays out, its fans will keep chanting “MVP” every time their slugger steps into the box.