Philadelphia Phillies designated hitter Kyle Schwarber has undoubtedly been adored by the Philly faithful since joining the team after being acquired during free agency in 2022. From Schwarber’s Neighborhood Heroes to the slugger's partnership with Yards Brewing Company, he has made his mark on this city in his stint in Philadelphia, regardless of what his impending free agency might look like. As his initial contract in Philadelphia comes to a close, Schwarber is attempting to do something unthinkable to button up his Phillies tenure: compete against Shohei Ohtani for the National League MVP.
After deciding to hold off on potential contract extension negotiations until after this season, many Phillies fans, including fellow Philly sports legend Charles Barkley have shifted their focus from the possible hurt of Schwarber leaving Philadelphia in the long haul that is free agency, to enjoying "the now" as Schwarber chases down his second MVP title in 2025, his first coming during this year's All-Star game.