Kyle Schwarber might not be seen in the field anymore. Well, before speculating on any retirement rumors, Schwarber will just play as a designated hitter and first baseman for the Phillies this year. While it sounds good, considering the fans would witness a better display of his hitting, how effective will it be for the team? The recent statement shared by Schwarber this Thursday also indicates his preference to get back his former position.

Schwarber has spent almost twice as many innings as a catcher (144) as he has at first base (75). Except for nine postseason games, he spent all 75 innings at first base with the 2021 Red Sox. Thus, Schwarber is gradually becoming a utility player from a left fielder. Where Schwarber bats in the lineup is now the one thing that has to be determined. He will be a free agent at the end of the season. Does it mean the same as the previous three seasons of Leadoff? Or fourth to shield Bryce Harper?

Kyle Schwarber is in a new role this year

The 31-year-old veteran Kyle Schwarber has made a name for himself as one of the game’s best power hitters. Schwarber’s skill at the plate is unparalleled, as evidenced by his numerous seasons with over 45 home runs. He had a fantastic season in 2024, hitting 38 home runs and 104 RBIs and displaying higher batting averages. The Phillies have benefited greatly from Schwarber’s ability to drive in runs and provide offensive firepower, despite his propensity to strike out. Well, all these figures for Schwarber are from his infield position. Can he perform the same as a designated hitter?

“You embrace the challenge, wanted to do it. You wanted to help them out any way you could,” said an optimistic Schwarber. While he seems to be all set to shine in his new position, his performance in the spring games says otherwise. On Thursday, he played a total of 5 innings at 1B but did not have a ball hit. So, how does he feel about the same? “Even though I play DH mostly for this team, there’s still a part of me that always wants to be in the field. You miss that aspect of the game sometimes,” said Schwarber, sharing his intent to get back to his previous role. 

What’s good for the Phillies?

As per the projected lineup for the Phillies, Kyle Schwarber is placed as DH. Nick Castellanos, Max Kepler, and Brandon Marsh are planned for the outfield. Hence, it is unlikely that the Phillies will offer a field position to Schwarber anymore. Considering 2025 is the last year of a contract between the Phillies and Schwarber, a qualifying offer can only materialize for a designated hitter. Schwarber can either opt to stay with the Phillies as DH or can sail through the free agency as a DH, left fielder, and first baseman. 

For the Phillies, 2025 will be a better year than 2024. With the acquisition of outfielder Max Kepler, right-handers Jordan Romano and Joe Ross, and left-hander Jesús Luzardo, their chances have increased. Over the past three seasons, the Phillies have shown they are capable of contending for an NL pennant, but they have failed to win a World Series. While they have made a few offseason roster additions this year, the core of this team remains the same. Hopefully, the Phillies can get their coveted ring this year by changing the position of Schwarber.

Apart from the expectation for the Phillies to get the World Series ring, Schwarber’s performance at the 1B is something to watch out for. What do you think about Schwarber playing from a new position this year? Share with us below.