The Mets are generating a buzz as the winter meetings kick off this Sunday. Notably, ESPN’s Buster Olney identified a particularly exciting rumor involving potential talks for free agent Kyle Schwarber, an experienced designated hitter and outfielder.
Schwarber, who became a free agent after four seasons with the Phillies—where he consistently hit over 38 home runs each year—is apparently on the Mets’ radar. Olney mentioned that, while he doubts that the Mets can match whatever Philadelphia offers the 32-year-old slugger, they might spark some sort of bidding war. This, he notes, is similar to what the Braves initiated before the Phillies secured pitcher Aaron Nola with a hefty seven-year, $172 million deal.
Bringing Schwarber into the mix could significantly bolster the Mets’ lineup, which already features Juan Soto, who had a .263 batting average and .921 OPS last season. Moreover, Schwarber’s addition could introduce a new dynamic—both in terms of hitting home runs and getting on base, as he and Soto each notched 108 and 127 walks, respectively, leading the league in their own rights.
If Schwarber joins the Mets, they might also be facing a lineup reshuffle, especially if Pete Alonso departs in free agency. They’ve already begun adjusting their roster after a disappointing season that didn’t see them make the playoffs, notably trading Brandon Nimmo to the Rangers for Marcus Semien, an infielder reputed to strengthen team chemistry.
Olney highlighted Schwarber as a player who tends to foster camaraderie within the team. Interestingly, reports have also surfaced suggesting that the Pirates could be a viable option for Schwarber.
Schwarber, known for being a first-round pick by the Cubs back in 2014, has had a varied career. After debuting in 2015, he spent six seasons in Chicago and then had stints with the Nationals, the Red Sox, and more recently, the Phillies.
During his time in Philadelphia, he played a pivotal role in a successful lineup that featured stars like Trea Turner and Bryce Harper, contributing significantly to their playoff aspirations. Last season, he made quite an impression, topping the National League with 56 home runs and driving in 132 RBIs, the highest in MLB.
After the Phillies concluded their season with a loss in the NLDS, Schwarber reflected on the emotional weight of perhaps playing his last game with the team, expressing his sentiments about the relationships he built with teammates. “You just develop different relationships in the clubhouse,” he shared, emphasizing the familial bonds formed throughout the season.
