It’s nearly impossible to leave the Philadelphia Phillies out of the conversation when talking about 2025 World Series contenders. Motivated by last year’s NL Division Series loss to the New York Mets, the Phillies have bounced back strong, starting the season with a 36-20 record through 56 games and sitting atop the National League.
Their success, as usual, is a result of contributions across the roster. Several veteran players are delivering standout performances—none more so than designated hitter Kyle Schwarber, whom Bryce Harper is eager to see re-signed soon.
Bryce Harper Urges Phillies to Extend Kyle Schwarber’s Contract
Kyle Schwarber is enjoying a stellar season, and Harper has openly expressed his desire to see the 32-year-old remain with the team. Speaking to the Philadelphia Inquirer, Harper said, “I don’t see [Schwarber] playing anywhere else… he brings so much value to our team both on and off the field.
Schwarber is in the final year of the four-year, $79 million deal he signed with Philadelphia in 2022. Since then, he’s become a fan favorite and consistent power hitter, leading the NL with 46 home runs in his first year and hitting 47 and 38 home runs in 2023 and 2024, respectively—along with exactly 104 RBIs each season.
This year, he’s maintained that production with 19 homers, 41 RBIs, 43 walks, and a .252/.394/.569 slash line over 56 games (202 at-bats). One of his standout moments came on May 19, when he hit a 466-foot homer against the Rockies, marking the 300th of his career.
With his continued ability to produce 30-40 home runs and 100+ RBIs per season, it’s no surprise fans—and Harper—want him to stay. Schwarber has solidified his place as one of MLB’s top designated hitters, and his bat is a key reason why the Phillies are serious contenders.
The front office appears to agree. Phillies president Dave Dombrowski told The Show that the team would “love to keep [Schwarber] as part of the organization long term,” though he acknowledged other teams will likely pursue him.
With the third-best World Series odds (+950 on FanDuel), the Phillies are hoping they can not only keep Schwarber but ride his bat all the way to a championship.
