A powerful voice is nudging the Reds toward a bold Kyle Schwarber pursuit

As a team that ranked just 21st in home runs (167) and slugging percentage (.391) this past season, the Cincinnati Reds clearly have some work to do to support their budding pitching staff in 2026. One of the most frequently rumored targets of the team has been Philadelphia Phillies slugger Kyle Schwarber,. The 32-year-old masher hit .240/.365/.563 with 56 home runs this season, good for a career-high 152 wRC+.

Having played in all 162 games this past season, Schwarber would have led the Reds in home runs, RBI, runs, walks, and OPS. He would be an immediate infusion of game-changing talent to the lineup.

The issues, however, are abundant, including significant payroll concerns. Schwarber is sure to earn a nine-figure contract in free agency, and odds are he'll be attached to a $25+ million AAV that would triple anyone else's figure on Cincinnati's roster. So, to mend some payroll gaps, perhaps the Reds can look to the government for some financial assistance this winter.

Ohio governor urges Reds to bring Kyle Schwarber home in free agency

A native of Middletown, Ohio, Schwarber grew up a stone's throw away from Great American Ball Park. He's been linked to the Reds ever since the Chicago Cubs selected him in the first round of the 2014 MLB Draft, and he has already proven capable of thriving in Cincinnati, hitting 13 home runs in 50 career games at GABP.

Ohio governor Mike DeWine recently responded to a Cincinnati Enquirer article that reflected on ESPN's Jeff Passan calling the Reds and Schwarber a perfect match in free agency. It's clear that all Reds fans want this move to happen.

Again, though, that's easier said than done. Schwarber will be one of the most-pursued bats on the market after hitting 187 home runs in four years with the Phillies, and his lack of any defensive ability is sure to make fitting him on most rosters a challenge, especially for teams like the Reds that prefers to keep its designated hitter spot fluid.

Plus, he's about to turn 33 and is attached to the qualifying offer. Odds are, the team that signs him will be paying a premium for past production, rather than what he'll be capable of in his post-prime years. But, the Reds might just benefit from listening to the governor's opinion.