The team has several notable players hitting free agency, but none carry more weight than the left fielder. He is expected to draw significant interest across the league this offseason. Since arriving in Philadelphia, he has been a steady force at the plate, putting up an .856 OPS and launching 187 home runs over four seasons. While there may be concerns about giving a major deal to someone entering his age-33 season, a club is almost certain to invest heavily in the recent MVP finalist.
Sports Illustrated analysts Will Laws and Nick Selbe projected that Kyle Schwarber would depart Philadelphia to sign with the New York Mets. “Over the past four seasons, only Aaron Judge has hit more than Schwarber’s 187 home runs,” the publication wrote on Nov. 7. “The veteran slugger has posted nearly every day during that span, missing just 21 games since 2022. Schwarber is comfortably in the DH-only phase of his career, and players at the bottom of the defensive spectrum have had to take some financial hits in free agency in recent years. If those teams believe Schwarber can maintain his status as one of the league’s best hitters for the medium-term future, then he’ll more than justify a nine-figure commitment.”
Few teams can outspend Steve Cohen and the Mets if they are determined to land him. With David Stearns emphasizing better run prevention, New York could allow Pete Alonso — who has recorded minus-33 outs above average at first base since 2019 — to leave in free agency. That would open the door for Schwarber to fill the offensive void.
While Schwarber’s batting average may not stand out, his power more than compensates. Losing him would be a major setback for Philadelphia and its fanbase, especially if he were to join a rival as disliked as the Mets. His connection to the Phillies could still spark a reunion, but if his priority is the biggest offer combined with a legitimate chance to contend, the Mets present a strong opportunity. Pairing up with Francisco Lindor and Juan Soto would position him well in a push for a championship.