Phillies playoff meltdown may push dream free agent straight to the Reds

The notion of Kyle Schwarber joining his hometown Cincinnati Reds this offseason has been discussed ad nauseam, and a large section of the fanbase seems to think that the idea is laughable at best. Frankly, those people are not wrong.

Not only will Schwarber's impending free agency attract some of the biggest spenders in baseball (something the Reds are not), but given the way Cincinnati's roster is constructed, the fit is questionable. Schwarber, while an undeniable talent, is limited to acting strictly as a team's designated hitter — something the Reds tend to shy away from.

But following the Philadelphia Phillies' latest playoff implosion, now more than ever, Schwarber may be taking an inventory of his options heading into the offseason. Though still a long shot, if the Phillies bow out of the postseason early, the Reds chances of signing Schwarber will certainly get a boost (albeit a small one).

Phillies playoff meltdown may push Kyle Schwarber straight to the Reds

Schwarber will be one of the most sought-after free agents on the market this winter. After blasting 56 home runs during the regular season and boasting a 150 OPS+, there'll be no shortage of teams interested in signing the likely runner-up for this year's NL MVP trophy.

Cincinnati Enquirer columnist — and noted Chicago Cubs apologist — Gordon Wittenmyer has been pushing the narrative of Schwarber returning home to Ohio to close out his Major League career. Schwarber is wrapping up his four-year commitment to Philadelphia, and at age 32, will be looking for one last big-time contract.

Most experts believe that Schwarber will be able to secure another four-year deal, with some estimates coming in at $30 million per year. Would a four-year, $120 million be enough to lure the slugger back home to the Cincinnati area? Would the Reds even consider such a huge number?

The Reds lacked power this past season. Cincinnati finished 21st in home runs (250) and slugging percentage (.391) despite playing half their games in the launching pad that is Great American Ball Park. Having Schwarber's bat in the middle of the lineup would do wonders for Reds and add protection for superstar shortstop Elly De La Cruz.

The Phillies are expected to make a strong effort to retain Schwarber this offseason, but an early playoff exit may lead him to check out other options. Whether or not Cincinnati is interested is not up for debate. Whether or not the Reds would actually meet Schwarber's salary demands is another question entirely. Until Schwarber signs elsewhere this offseason, this dream will remain alive (barely).