The Philadelphia Phillies are gearing up for a pivotal offseason, with their star slugger Kyle Schwarber hitting free agency at a career-high. Schwarber’s monster 2025 season has positioned him for a potential $100 million-plus contract, leaving the Phillies at a crossroads: re-sign their fan-favorite powerhouse or pivot to a bold alternative. Meanwhile, the New York Yankees are sweating over the future of their own versatile star, Cody Bellinger, who could be the Phillies’ perfect Plan B.
According to MLB insider Mark Feinsand, the Phillies are among the top contenders to pursue Bellinger if he opts out of his current deal with the Yankees. Bellinger, currently in the second year of a three-year, $80 million contract with a $25 million player option for 2026, is widely expected to test free agency this winter. His stellar 2025 performance in the Bronx—24 home runs, 75 RBIs, and an .823 OPS in 116 games—has made him a hot commodity. With a second 4-WAR season in three years, the former National League MVP is proving he’s worth a long-term deal, something that has eluded him so far.
For the Yankees, Bellinger has been a revelation, seamlessly fitting into their lineup with his power at the plate and elite defensive skills. But with the Phillies looming as a potential suitor, New York faces the real possibility of losing their star outfielder. Philadelphia’s interest in Bellinger stems from their need to prepare for life without Schwarber, whose departure would leave a massive void in their lineup. While Bellinger’s bat doesn’t quite match Schwarber’s prodigious power, his versatility and defensive prowess make him an enticing fallback option.
Bellinger’s ability to play a stellar center field gives him an edge in mobility over Schwarber, offering the Phillies a chance to bolster their outfield defense while maintaining a potent offensive presence. His .823 OPS and consistent production in 2025 signal a return to the form that earned him MVP honors, making him a prime target for a Phillies team looking to stay competitive in the National League.
If Philadelphia fails to lock down Schwarber, landing Bellinger could soften the blow. The move would signal a strategic shift, prioritizing a well-rounded skill set over raw power. For the Yankees, however, the prospect of losing Bellinger to a rival like the Phillies adds urgency to their offseason plans. As the free agency frenzy approaches, both teams are bracing for a high-stakes battle that could reshape their rosters—and the balance of power in MLB.