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Former Marlins GM David Samson Makes Surprising Kyle Schwarber Contract Prediction

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jake Elman | Last updated Aug 6, 2025 3:00 PM ET

With 40 home runs, a league-high 94 RBIs, and a stellar .973 OPS to his name, Philadelphia Phillies designated hitter and impending free agent Kyle Schwarber picked the perfect time for a career year.

Schwarber is in the final months of a four-year, $79 million deal, and he’s set himself up for a massive contract in free agency. Although Schwarber is essentially a full-time DH who turns 33 next March, he’s still a three-time All-Star with a potent power stroke and an impressive .382 on-base percentage.

Should Phillies fans be concerned about Schwarber leaving Philadelphia? Former Miami Marlins general manager David Samson went so far as to say there is “panic” among Phillies fans.

“[There] is the possibility that Dave Dombrowski will look at Kyle Schwarber, at 32 years old ... and say, ‘I cannot give you the type of raise you think you’re getting,’" Samson said on the “Nothing Personal” podcast.

And what type of raise does Samson believe Schwarber will seek?

KYLE SCHWARBER GRAND SLAM

2 HR tonight. 40 HR this season. pic.twitter.com/vWgiSesQdy
— MLB (@MLB) August 5, 2025

“You can bet that Kyle Schwarber’s going to ask for close to $300 million in free agency,” Samson projected.

Schwarber might ask for $300 million, but he shouldn’t plan on getting a contract that large, given his age and positional limitations. Former Baltimore Orioles outfielder Anthony Santander inked a five-year, $92.5 million deal with the Toronto Blue Jays last offseason, and he at least plays the field.

Then again, Schwarber’s power and plate discipline speak for themselves. What’s stopping a team like the New York Yankees or San Diego Padres from meeting Schwarber in the middle and giving him $200 million?

We personally believe Schwarber will sign a contract worth roughly $110 million, but maybe Samson is onto something. Either way, we do agree that Phillies fans should start worrying.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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