Reds Show Interest in Kyle Schwarber: Key Updates on MLB Offseason Moves and Rumors

The Cincinnati Reds have shown strong interest in free-agent designated hitter Kyle Schwarber, who hails from Middletown, Ohio, near Cincinnati. Schwarber is intrigued by the possibility of returning home and joining a team led by respected manager Terry Francona, with a young lineup that improved to 83 wins last season.

However, financial hurdles could hinder the Reds’ pursuit. The Philadelphia Phillies are expected to outbid Cincinnati with a projected five-year, $145 million offer. Reds president Nick Krall has indicated the payroll will remain stable, leaving roughly $20 million available, which falls short of Schwarber’s likely annual cost.

To accommodate Schwarber, the Reds might trade utility player Gavin Lux, who is expected to earn $5 million in arbitration, and possibly another mid-tier salary player. Yet, even with moves, fitting Schwarber’s contract into their budget remains challenging without making a special exception. Schwarber, who will turn 33 in March, probably seeks his last major contract and is unlikely to take a hometown discount.

Besides the Reds and Phillies, other big-market teams such as the Mets and Red Sox could also enter free agency negotiations for Schwarber. The Reds’ roster has promise, with key players like Elly De La Cruz and Noelvi Marte under team control through at least 2028. Adding Schwarber as the designated hitter could considerably boost their lineup, given his recent power surge of 56 home runs.

Other MLB Offseason Notes

1. The Milwaukee Brewers are seriously considering trade talks for right-hander Freddy Peralta due to strong interest around the league. Owner Mark Attanasio and GM Matt Arnold remain optimistic about their rotation despite this possibility, which may include Brandon Woodruff leading the staff.

2. Cody Bellinger continues to impress defensively, having started in center, right, and left fields last season more than any player since 1901. His versatility and improved first-step quickness helped him achieve his best defensive marks, as noted by Fangraphs and Statcast.

3. The Colorado Rockies experienced a leadership transition from early October to early November. GM Bill Schmidt resigned, and Paul DePodesta was hired as the new head of baseball operations. The Rockies plan to finalize coaching roles and hire a general manager soon, focusing on expanding their baseball operations infrastructure.

4. Free agent Bo Bichette delivered outstanding offensive numbers, especially against fastballs over 97 mph, batting .448 with a .516 weighted on-base average. His presence improved teammate Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s performance significantly, highlighting Bichette’s impact as a hitter.

The fluctuating market and team priorities will shape offseason moves as the Reds and other MLB clubs navigate player costs, roster composition, and long-term plans heading into spring training.