With nine-figure contracts becoming a common benchmark that players and agents aim for in negotiations, Philadelphia Phillies designated hitter could be next in line to secure a \$100 million deal.

According to ESPN’s Jeff Passan, top star possesses all the qualities to justify such a contract. Passan identified him as one of the next likely candidates to reach that financial milestone, suggesting it’s entirely realistic for him to land a deal worth over \$100 million, with an average annual salary of at least \$25 million.

“A DH who will be 33 on Opening Day getting a nine-figure deal? he defies expectations in so many ways, so why not here too? He’s consistently productive,” Passan wrote. “He’s also a standout clubhouse presence. Offering him \$25 million a year wouldn’t surprise anyone, and asking for four years — especially in a market lacking elite hitters — makes perfect sense.”

He is nearing the end of his four-year, \$79 million contract with the Philadelphia Phillies and is set to earn \$20 million in 2025, per Spotrac. With his deal expiring after this season, he’s poised to re-enter contract talks.

The Phillies will need to decide whether to offer him an extension during the season or risk losing him to free agency.

Back in February, Schwarber made it clear he wants to remain in Philadelphia and was hopeful a new agreement could be reached sooner rather than later.

“We’ll see,” Schwarber told MLB.com. “I know there’s interest on our end. We’ll see what happens as camp progresses, if discussions start and move forward.”

He emphasized that winning is the best way to secure a new contract.

“The best advice I’ve ever heard came from Jon Lester,” Schwarber added. “The easiest way to get paid is to win — so that’s what I’ll focus on. It’s always been my mindset.”

Will Phillies Keep Their Veteran Core Together?

The Philadelphia Phillies came up short in 2024, falling to the New York Mets in the National League Division Series, but Kyle Schwarber is optimistic about a deeper postseason run in 2025.

“I think the additions we’ve made are strong,” Schwarber said. “We did lose some key guys, but at the end of the day, it’s on us. We know we have a good team.”

He believes the familiarity and continuity within the roster could make the difference this time around.

“We’ve had largely the same core group for three or four years now, so we know what we’re working with,” Schwarber explained. “We’re not surprising anyone anymore. Teams know our lineup, our rotation, and our bullpen. It’s just up to us to find a way to reach our ultimate goal.”

If he doesn’t sign an extension with Philadelphia, Schwarber is expected to be one of the top free agents on the market this offseason.