The Philadelphia Phillies are reportedly optimistic about re-signing free agents Kyle Schwarber and J.T. Realmuto, according to statements made by president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski during the Winter Meetings in Orlando, Florida.
Dombrowski told reporters on Monday that there is “optimism” regarding their chances to bring both players back to the roster. This sentiment was echoed by other sources familiar with Schwarber’s situation, who indicated a belief that an agreement will ultimately be reached between the team and the player. One source said that the Phillies are expected to outbid competing teams such as the Red Sox, Mets, Reds, and Pirates for Schwarber’s services. Teams pursuing Schwarber have acknowledged that it would be surprising if he signs elsewhere.
Despite this optimism, no deal has been finalized yet. Dombrowski noted, “I’m just not sure what’s going to happen.” He emphasized the importance of resolving contract talks soon so that alternative options remain available: “I think that we properly expressed that,” Dombrowski said. “I want those guys to know how much we respect them, how much we would like to have them back. All that. But there’s a timeframe, too. It doesn’t mean you have to do something else, but at some point you need to move some things forward. So I think that’s been properly communicated.
“I’m not saying we’re sprinting forward with a lot of different things, but that’s been properly communicated. And I think that we’re prepared to shift if we need to.”
If both players return for another season with Philadelphia, some observers may describe the offseason strategy as maintaining continuity after four consecutive postseason disappointments. However, Dombrowski pushed back against this idea: “We’re not running our club back,” he said. He pointed out changes in personnel including prospects Justin Crawford and Aidan Miller nearing MLB roles and confirmed Max Kepler will not return next season.
“I’m not so sure that when you win 96 games that you should really look to have to do a lot of things differently,” Dombrowski added. “But you’re always looking to get better. It’s very dependent upon, if you sign guys, how much money you spend, who else is available. If somebody is better than what you have, then by all means we’re open minded to it.”
Regarding other roster moves, Dombrowski said the Phillies are still seeking trade opportunities for Nick Castellanos before his final contract year but noted limited interest from other teams even if Philadelphia absorbs most or all of his salary.
He also mentioned the possibility of trading players from their current 26-man roster—such as Alec Bohm (whom he expects will improve next season due to better health), Bryson Stott, Brandon Marsh or Matt Strahm—to reshape the team if needed.
Additionally, there are no plans for Bryce Harper or Trea Turner to change positions in case of further lineup adjustments.
