The Philadelphia Phillies are working to extend standout designated hitter Kyle Schwarber this winter. Phillies could lock down Kyle Schwarber

It had been three years since Kyle Schwarber played a competitive inning at first base. But that’s where Schwarber started the Phillies’ 7-7 tie with the Yankees on Thursday. It was his first time at the position since the 2021 postseason with the Red Sox.

Schwarber is entering the final season of his four-year free agent deal. The $79MM investment has paid off handsomely for the Phillies. He has hit .221/.344/.488 with 131 homers in a little more than 2000 plate appearances. Only Aaron Judge and Shohei Ohtani have hit more home runs over the last three seasons.

Until then, here are Saturday's MLB rumors. The Phillies and Kyle Schwarber have had broad extension talks this spring, according to The Athletic. No deal is imminent, however. Schwarber will be a free agent after the season and has expressed a desire to remain with Philadelphia long-term.

Schwarber has the team in mind, but adding first base isn't the worst idea going into a contract year. This spring, he has a modest mission.

Phillies teams with Schwarber leading off have been successful, but it might be time to shuffle up that part of the lineup.

Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Ranger Suárez will probably not receive a contract extension. Suárez is entering his last season of team control making $8.8 million.