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Phillies Set Schwarber as Priority, Explore Catching Options in Thin Market

Team president Dave Dombrowski calls Kyle Schwarber a priority, signaling contingency planning at catcher.

Overview

  • Dombrowski says the club has explored alternatives around J.T. Realmuto and will bring in a catcher regardless of his decision.
  • He characterizes the Phillies’ bid to retain Schwarber as a “strong and fair” offer, underscoring the organization’s emphasis on his return.
  • With few starting-caliber catchers available, MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand urges Philadelphia to re-sign Realmuto despite recent offensive decline.
  • Realmuto finished 2025 at .257/.315/.384 with 12 home runs, yet he remains valued for defense, game-calling and rapport with the pitching staff.
  • Analysts have speculated about a trade swing for Orioles catcher Adley Rutschman as a fallback, pointing to Samuel Basallo’s extension and Rutschman’s down year, with no deals reported.