Overview
- Schwarber remains unsigned entering the week of the Winter Meetings, with multiple reporters saying he could be the first major free agent to choose a team.
- ESPN’s Jeff Passan reports the Phillies remain the favorite to re-sign the slugger after his prior deal with Philadelphia expired.
- The Mets, Reds and Red Sox are described as primary contenders, per The Score’s reporting cited in new coverage.
- The Pirates have reportedly stepped back from the sweepstakes, with skepticism they will meet a top-of-market price.
- Contract expectations are high, as The Athletic’s Jim Bowden projects roughly $160 million following Schwarber’s 56-homer, 132-RBI 2025 season.