It is unusual to see designated hitters obtain huge offers in free company. That is additionally a uncommon prevalence when the participant is already of their 30s. In spite of everything, they solely play on one aspect of the ball and haven’t any impression defensively on the sport. Then once more, most designated hitters aren’t as productive as Kyle Schwarber has been for the Philadelphia Phillies.
Regardless of being courted by a number of groups, Schwarber re-signed with the Phillies on a five-year, $150 million extension. It is the second-highest contract ever for a delegated hitter. Solely Shohei Ohtani makes extra, although he additionally pitches for the Los Angeles Dodgers, so it is not fairly an apples to apples comparability.
Even so, Schwarber has had one of the best seasons of his profession with the Philadelphia Phillies. In 4 seasons, he is totaled 187 and 434 RBI, changing into a precious slugger for a perennial playoff workforce.
Keith Birmingham/MediaNews Group/Pasadena Star-Information by way of Getty Photos
Final 12 months, Schwarber completed second in Nationwide League MVP voting behind Ohtani. The 32-year-old led the NL in each residence runs (56) and RBIs (132) whereas posting batting splits of .240/.365/.563.
The 2025 marketing campaign additionally noticed Schwarber draw 108 walks and hit 4 residence runs in a single sport—a feat solely 20 different gamers in MLB historical past have finished. Moreover, he tied his profession excessive with 10 stolen bases and, for good measure, confirmed off his performing chops in an episode of the hit present “Abbott Elementary.”
Schwarber entered the league as a Chicago Cub again in 2015. Through the 2016 season, he tore his ACL and LCL after colliding together with his teammate Dexter Fowler within the outfield simply two video games into the common season. Schwarber missed practically your entire 12 months earlier than returning for the World Collection, contributing to the Cubs successful a championship for the primary time in 108 years.
After a disappointing 2020 season, the Cubs non-tendered Schwarber, and he grew to become a free agent. The Washington Nationals signed him after which traded him to the Boston Pink Sox halfway by way of the season. He declined his choice and joined the Phillies.
Schwarber’s final deal, which he signed in 2022, was price $79 million over 4 seasons. He is practically doubled that with this contract. And for good purpose—he is in one of the best form of his profession and enjoying on the prime of his sport. That is price the additional spend.
