Kyle Schwarber's market heat is rising—will he remain in the National League East?

As the baseball winter meetings draw near next week, the free agency landscape for ex-Phillies power hitter Kyle Schwarber is beginning to form.

It is reported that re-signing the 32-year-old slugger is one of the Phillies' top priorities this winter, but MLB.com reporter Todd Zolecki cited sources last week saying that no agreement is close yet. This opens the door for other teams to compete, with the New York Mets—also in the NL East—emerging as a potential new destination for Schwarber.

According to ESPN’s Jeff Passan, the Mets are “joining the race” to sign Schwarber. In the 2025 season, Schwarber hit 56 home runs and finished second in the NL MVP voting. On paper, he fits the Mets well: after first baseman Pete Alonso opted out of his contract, the team urgently needs power hitting; they recently traded away left-handed slugger Brandon Nimmo; and with Starling Marte also becoming a free agent, the designated hitter spot is open.

However, if the price tags for Schwarber and Alonso are similar, the Mets might prefer to simply re-sign Alonso. He is not only the franchise’s all-time home run leader and a fan favorite but also wouldn’t cost the team draft pick compensation. Since Schwarber has declined the Phillies' qualifying offer, signing him would require the Mets to forfeit multiple draft picks and lose $1 million of their international signing bonus pool. Therefore, many speculate that the Mets’ interest could be strategic—to drive up Schwarber’s asking price with the Phillies and gain leverage in Alonso negotiations.

Of course, the battle for Schwarber extends beyond these two NL East teams. The Boston Red Sox are also in the mix; having addressed a major need by acquiring starting pitcher Sonny Gray via trade, they are now seeking a strong bat for the middle of the lineup. Although the Red Sox prefer a right-handed hitter—possibly re-signing Alex Bregman or pursuing Alonso—MLB Network insider Jon Heyman revealed that Schwarber holds a “strong position” on Boston’s shortlist.

Heyman also noted that the Baltimore Orioles have shown interest in Schwarber. This winter, they have been active, acquiring outfielder Taylor Ward via trade and signing closer Ryan Helsley as a free agent.

Additionally, the Cincinnati Reds might enter the competition, giving Schwarber a chance to play near his hometown of Middletown, Ohio. The Reds have never signed a free agent for more than $64 million, but after making the playoffs in 2025, they may be more willing to increase spending this winter to maximize their competitive window while controlling a group of promising young pitchers, aiming to advance further in the postseason.

In any case, the contest for Schwarber’s services could soon conclude. According to Passan, it would be surprising if he remains unsigned by the end of the winter meetings.