Reds chances to sign Kyle Schwarber get subtle boost thanks to Phillies latest shift

Cincinnati Reds fans are undoubtedly refreshing their social media accounts every seven seconds as they await word on Kyle Schwarber's future. One of the most sought-after free agents on the market has been linked to the Reds for the past few weeks, but many MLB experts and pundits view Cincinnati as a long shot.

The latest news from MLB insider Jon Morosi, however, could be a good sign for the Reds. According to Morosi, the Philadelphia Phillies are among the teams who've checked in on Arizona Diamondbacks infielder Ketel Marte. Philadelphia is not among those listed on Marte's limited no-trade clause, meaning if the Phillies and D-backs worked out a deal, the All-Star second baseman could do nothing to stop it.

Though Marte's salary isn't exorbitant and wouldn't preclude the Phillies from signing Schwarber, it would take a chunk out of their payroll. Marte signed a seven-year, $116 million contract with Arizona at the start of the 2025 season that runs through 2030. The deal contains a player-option for the 2031 season as well.

The Phillies' pursuit of Ketel Marte could open the door for the Reds to sign Kyle Schwarber

Though the New York Mets and Boston Red Sox have recently joined the fray, the competition for Schwarber is thought to come down to either the Phillies or the Reds. Philadelphia can obviously offer the free agent slugger more money, and he's played there the past four seasons. But Cincinnati is home, and the Reds are thought to at least be willing to make a competitive offer.

The Reds desperately need a big-bat like Schwarber's in the middle of the lineup. Cincinnati ranked 21st in both slugging and home runs last season, and if they hope to get back to the playoffs in 2026, that's one area the front office must address this offseason.

The Phillies current payroll is sitting at $240 million according to FanGraphs, and Philadelphia ended last season with about $50 million more on the books. Marte would be owed $16 million next season, and the Phillies have never been afraid to blow past the Competitive Balance Tax threshold.

So while the acquisition of Marte wouldn't completely take the Phillies out of the picture, it could be a sign that they're pursuing other avenues in the event that Schwarber chooses to sign with the Reds.