MLB insider tags $3.2B NL East team as surprising “wild card” in Kyle Schwarber free agency sweepstakes

Former Philadelphia Phillies slugger Kyle Schwarber remains one of the most high-profile names available in free agency this offseason. MLB insider Jon Heyman said Schwarber is getting a lot of attention in the free agency class that features Cody Bellinger, Pete Alonso, Kyle Tucker and Bo Bichette, among others.

In a conversation with MLB Network's Greg Amsinger, Heyman said the Phillies remain the favorites to bring back Schwarber after his career year of 56 home runs with the team last season.

Amid the interest from his former team, Heyman picked the New York Mets as the wildcard in the Schwarber sweepstakes. The NL East franchise, valued at $3.2 billion by Forbes, are pursuing power-hitters this offseason and Schwarber, who contested for the NL MVP last season, fits the bill.

Heyman also mentioned the Cincinnati Reds as the team to "have a chance" in their pursuit of a veteran slugger.

According to USA Today's Bob Nightengale, an anonymous general manager said he'd be "shocked" if Schwarber doesn't return to Philadelphia this offseason.

“I’d be shocked if Schwarber doesn’t re-sign in Philly,” one GM said. “Dave Dombrowski knows how much he means to that club and won’t let him go.”

Pittsburgh Pirates make surprise contract offer for Kyle Schwarber amid interest from Phillies, Mets

While the Phillies and the Mets are being linked with Kyle Schwarber, the Pittsburgh Pirates surprised the baseball community by reportedly offering a four-year deal for Kyle Schwarber.

The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal reported on Sunday that the Pirates have tabled a four-year contract worth more than $100 million for the veteran designated hitter.

The Pirates' largest contract in free agency went to Francisco Liriano in 2014 when he signed a three-year, $39-million deal. Pittsburgh's reported offer for Schwarber comes in the wake of the team's 71-win season, where their bats failed to support ace Paul Skenes, who claimed the NL Cy Young award this year.

It'll be interesting to see if the Pirates make franchise history by signing Schwarber or the Phillies re-sign their fan-favorite to extend his stay in Philadelphia.