For the first time since the 2016-17 offseason, the Philadelphia Phillies have avoided handing out a multi-year contract in free agency. Instead, they opted for short-term additions, signing outfielder Max Kepler and pitchers Jordan Romano and Joe Ross to one-year deals.
Despite their cautious spending, the Phillies’ payroll remains substantial. According to FanGraphs, their projected luxury tax payroll for 2025 stands at $307.5 million, surpassing the highest threshold of $301 million and triggering a 110% tax penalty on every dollar beyond that limit. However, several major contracts are set to expire after the 2025 season, including Kyle Schwarber’s four-year, $79 million deal and J.T. Realmuto’s five-year, $115.5 million contract.
Both players have been key contributors, with Schwarber ranking among baseball’s top designated hitters and leadoff bats, while Realmuto remains one of the game’s premier catchers. Now, one of these stars has made it clear that he hopes to stay in Philadelphia beyond his current contract.
In a recent interview with Sports Talk Philly, Schwarber—who is entering the final year of his deal—expressed a strong desire to remain with the Phillies long-term.
“I haven’t gone down to Spring (Training) yet, but there’s interest on my side, and we’ll see if there’s interest on their side,” Schwarber said. “We’ll go from there.”
Schwarber’s impact since joining the Phillies has been undeniable. Over his first three seasons in Philadelphia, he has delivered impressive numbers, including an .832 OPS, 129 OPS+, 131 home runs, 318 walks, and 318 runs scored, accumulating a 6.4 bWAR. More importantly, the Phillies have made the playoffs every year since he arrived, highlighted by a 2022 World Series appearance.
“I’ve enjoyed my time so much,” Schwarber told Sports Talk Philly. “I was with the Cubs for how many years, then signed a one-year deal with Boston. Being here, it feels like home now. I’d love to keep that going as long as I can. Hopefully, we can win multiple World Series in the years to come.”
Given Schwarber’s leadership and consistent production, it would be surprising if the Phillies didn’t at least explore an extension during Spring Training. The veteran slugger has cemented himself as a cornerstone of the franchise, both in the clubhouse and on the field, making his future a key storyline heading into the 2025 season.
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