Kyle Schwarber is sending a loud message that the Reds can’t ignore

Kyle Schwarber's homecoming is anything but certain. In fact, it's highly unlikely. The runner-up for the 2025 NL MVP Award this past season will be the top target for a number of teams this offseason, not the least of which is the Cincinnati Reds. If there's one player on the free agent market who could change the fortunes of the Reds going forward, it's Schwarber.

But Cincinnati's tight-fisted ownership group may have already torpedoed any chance of Schwarber playing in his hometown next season. Reds President of Baseball Operations Nick Krall has been forthcoming about the team's payroll heading into 2026, and it's to remain flat. Last season, according to Cot's Baseball Contracts, the Reds year-end payroll was just under $119 million.

Taking a peek into the books for 2026 — when you include arbitration raises, long-term contracts, and the remainder of Jeimer Candelario's salary — Cincinnati only has about $20 million to spend before they hit that mark. Given his track record, Schwarber is likely to command $30-$35 million per year, meaning that any pursuit to bring the Middletown native back home would be over before it even began.

Kyle Schwarber is practically begging for the Reds to give him a call

Schwarber, however, recently appeared at local event at his former high school and definitely sounded like he'd welcome a return to his hometown. Moreover, given the affinity he has for the Middletown community, Schwarber was practically begging for the Reds to give him a call this offseason.

"You know, I grew up going to games there. I grew up sitting in the bleachers and watching a lot of games and, you know, I think the kid would be excited, right? You have your hometown team that's calling," Schwarber said.

Schwarber concluded his comments by saying, "But, also being in the profession, and knowing a little bit more of the ins and outs, right? You've got an open ear, right? You have to listen and keep different options open and see what happens."

If you can't read between the lines, allow to me translate what Schwarber was saying. "Hey Reds, I want to play for my hometown team and if you make me a competitive offer, I'll definitely consider it."

The ball is squarely in the Reds' court, but given everything that's come out of the front office since the offseason began, it seems unlikely that Schwarber will be in Cincinnati on Opening Day.