Phillies' Kyle Schwarber Would Solve 'A Lot' of Mets' Problems, MLB Scout Says

One MLB scout told SNY's John Harper the New York Mets should respond to the potential departure of Pete Alonso by targeting Philadelphia Phillies designated hitter Kyle Schwarber in free agency.

"Kyle Schwarber would solve a lot of their problems," the scout told Harper about the Mets. "I don't know if it's possible, but if Steve Cohen wants to flex again this winter, he should pay whatever it would take to get Schwarber to leave the Phillies."

Alonso, who posted a career-high .272 batting average and led the Mets with 126 RBI last season, has said he plans to opt out of the final year of his two-year, $54 million contract and test free agency this winter.

The news came after the Mets lost out on a postseason berth after being shut out last Sunday during a win-or-go-home season finale against the Miami Marlins.

Schwarber, who led MLB with a career-high 132 RBI while helping the Phillies secure the top of the NL East, is also set to hit free agency this winter.

While Schwarber prepares to join the Phillies when the postseason begins Saturday with an NLDS matchup against the Los Angeles Dodgers, the Mets will be contemplating what changes can be made to ensure the club won't repeat this season's collapse in 2026.

MLB.com's Mark Feinsand wrote in August that Schwarber could receive as much as $400 million on his next deal.

Only teams unwilling or unable to pay that price, or clubs like the Los Angeles Dodgers or San Francisco Giants who already have players settled in the DH position, can be counted out of the running to pursue him in free agency.

Cohen showed last winter with his historic offer to Juan Soto that he is willing to spend on top players. Should Schwarber consider leaving Philadelphia after the Phillies wrap up the postseason, the Mets could consider adding him, with Alonso's future uncertain.