Philadelphia Phillies outfielder Kyle Schwarber (12) runs the bases after hitting a grand slam home run during the sixth inning against the Los Angeles Angels at Citizens Bank Park. Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

Phillies cannot let Kyle Schwarber get away

By Adam Gretz | Last updated Jul 19, 2025 10:34 PM ET

The biggest short-term priority for the Philadelphia Phillies is adding an outfielder and some bullpen help to this year's roster. The biggest long-term priority is going to be making sure designated hitter — and All-Star Game hero — Kyle Schwarber does not get away from them.

He demonstrated why, yet again, on Saturday night in the Phillies' 9-5 win over the Los Angeles Angels.

He went 2-for-4 with a walk in the win, while hitting his 32nd home run of the season.

It was a grand slam in the bottom of the sixth inning to complete a comeback and give the Phillies the lead.

KYLE SCHWARBER IS A MACHINE! pic.twitter.com/5kLiX8PiLM
— Philadelphia Phillies (@Phillies) July 20, 2025

Along with being one of the league's most feared power hitters, Schwarber is also one of the heart-and-soul players on the Phillies roster. He embodies what the team is about, is a beloved player among fans and has a knack for clutch moments in big situations.

He is also a free agent following the 2025 season.

Even though he has severe defensive liabilities and is no longer a real option in the field, his bat alone is a huge advantage and a huge asset for the Phillies to have.

Phillies managing general partner John Middleton said on Friday that they "love" Schwarber and would love to keep him.

From ESPN:

"We need no motivation whatsoever when it comes to Kyle Schwarber," Middleton said. "He's great. We thought he was great when we signed him years ago. We thought he was great consistently through the years. There's nothing Kyle does that surprises us. No matter how great he is, we expect that from Kyle. He's a great person in the dugout. He's a great person in the clubhouse."

Those are big words, and a pretty strong indication that they do, in fact, want him back.

A contract extension for him may not be a front-burner issue in July, but it quickly should become one after the July 31 trade deadline passes and before the offseason begins. If he gets to the open market, a left-handed bat like his is going to be highly sought after.

The Phillies love him. He is a great fit. They have the funds and resources to keep him. It should be a no-brainer not to let him leave.

Adam Gretz

Adam Gretz is a freelance writer based in Pittsburgh. He covers the NHL, NFL, MLB and NBA. Baseball is his favorite sport -- he is nearly halfway through his goal of seeing a game in every MLB ballpark. Catch him on Twitter @AGretz

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