The Philadelphia Phillies are prioritizing re-signing free agent Kyle Schwarber after their second straight National League Division Series exit in 2025. With a talented core still seeking a World Series title since 2008, the team aims to bolster its roster through free agency and trades. Key areas include the outfield and bullpen improvements ahead of another NL East title push.
After exiting the National League Division Series for the second consecutive year, the Philadelphia Phillies are targeting specific offseason moves to enhance their chances in 2026. The team's top priority is retaining designated hitter Kyle Schwarber, who finished second in 2025 NL MVP voting with 56 home runs. Schwarber, MLB.com's No. 3 free agent, averaged 46.75 homers per season from 2022-25 and posted a .930 playoff OPS with 14 postseason homers during runs to the 2022 World Series and 2023 NLCS. He expressed hope to return, but as of early November, negotiations were not close, according to MLB.com's Todd Zolecki. Catcher J.T. Realmuto, the top free-agent option at his position, and lefty starter Ranger Suárez are also entering free agency, though retaining Suárez may prove challenging.
The outfield presents another area of need. Harrison Bader, acquired at the 2025 Trade Deadline, is a free agent, while Schwarber serves as full-time DH, Bryce Harper rarely plays the outfield, and Nick Castellanos is expected to be traded or released. Behind Brandon Marsh, options are limited, prompting considerations for re-signing Bader or Max Kepler, or pursuing Adolis García, recently non-tendered by the Texas Rangers. A trade involving third baseman Alec Bohm could also yield outfield help, though a move for top free agent Kyle Tucker seems unlikely unless Schwarber departs. Internally, the Phillies may rely on Otto Kemp, Weston Wilson, Johan Rojas, and prospect Justin Crawford. The 21-year-old Crawford, the Phillies' No. 3 prospect and MLB No. 54 overall, hit .334 with 46 stolen bases and an .863 OPS at Triple-A in 2025. Phillies president Dave Dombrowski indicated openness to Crawford earning a roster spot in Spring Training, highlighting his 75-grade speed, .322 career average, and .385 on-base percentage.
The bullpen, which posted a 4.27 ERA in 2025 tied for 10th highest in the majors, requires attention. Reliever Jordan Romano struggled to an 8.23 ERA in 49 appearances after signing a one-year, $8.5 million deal, while José Alvarado served an 80-game suspension for a performance-enhancing substance violation. Returning arms include Jhoan Duran for a full season, Orion Kerkering, Tanner Banks, and Matt Strahm, with Alvarado's 2026 club option exercised. While top free agents like Edwin Díaz, Robert Suarez, or Devin Williams are unlikely targets, adding relievers would support the strong starting rotation.
As of November 27, 2025, Schwarber and the Phillies remain far apart in contract talks amid NL East competition from the Mets and Braves.
