The Philadelphia Phillies fell short of winning the World Series last season, and now star slugger Kyle Schwarber has hit free agency. Schwarber is one of the top names on the open market, attracting plenty of interest from teams eager to add his power bat. While the Phillies may be willing to outbid other suitors to keep Schwarber—potentially disregarding concerns about his age—the possibility remains that he could move on. If that happens, replacing his offensive output will present a significant challenge, likely requiring multiple acquisitions.
Finding a replacement for Schwarber’s production is easier said than done. Among free agent options, a player like Kyle Tucker could make sense for the Phillies, but his potential price tag may prove prohibitive. If the Phillies miss out on Schwarber and turn to the trade market, intriguing possibilities emerge. MLB insider Bob Nightengale recently listed Fernando Tatis Jr. of the San Diego Padres as a potentially available trade target.
FanSided’s Christopher Kline even urged Phillies President Dave Dombrowski to swing a major trade for Tatis if Schwarber signs elsewhere. “The Phillies need slugging, especially with Kyle Schwarber and J.T. Realmuto both, also, free agents,” Kline wrote on Monday. “If Schwarber leaves in particular, that puts immense pressure on Dave Dombrowski to deliver another impact bat. And Tatis’ contract, while exorbitant in length, is rather light on annual value at the moment—certainly within Philadelphia’s price range. As such, the Phillies are worth keeping tabs on here. Big Dave is overdue for a big swing.”
Adding Tatis would not only bring elite offensive production to Philadelphia, but also help solve the team’s ongoing outfield dilemma. The Phillies have struggled to get consistent production from their outfield and traded for Harrison Bader last season in an attempt to address the issue. While Tatis would represent a long-term solution, trading for him would be a major commitment. He has nine years and $292 million remaining on his contract, including $20.7 million for next season, $25.7 million for 2027 and 2028, and $36.7 million annually for the final six years. Despite the long-term outlay, his salary over the next three seasons is actually considered a bargain given his superstar status.
Tatis is a three-time All-Star and two-time Platinum Glove winner in right field. While it may be unrealistic to find available hitters who can fully replicate Schwarber’s power, Tatis, with his impressive .868 career OPS, could be the next best thing for Philadelphia—if the front office is ready to make a bold move.
https://www.newsweek.com/sports/mlb/phillies-urged-to-acquire-pricey-all-star-if-kyle-schwarber-departs-11028819