MLB spring training is the perfect time to experiment due to the low stakes of the exhibition action. The Philadelphia Phillies did some experimenting during Thursday's 7-7 tie with the New York Yankees as manager Rob Thomson deployed veteran slugger Kyle Schwarber at first base for the first time since 2021.
Schwarber spent nearly the entire 2024 season as the club's designated hitter, which is why Phillies fans were so caught off guard by the position change. Even though playing 1B isn't something the two-time MLB All-Star is used to, his post-game comments make it clear that he's willing to be a team player.
Phillies News: Kyle Schwarber Reacts to Playing 1B vs. Yankees
Just before facing the Yankees on Thursday, Schwarber spoke with The Athletic's Matt Gelb about various topics. When asked about playing first base for the first time in nearly four years, the 31-year-old left-handed bat declared he'll do whatever it takes to help the Phillies win.
"I know I'm not going to be here and be the primary first baseman," Schwarber admitted. "If things work out here, that would be awesome (to stay). But if it doesn't, it's always nice to have that in your back pocket."
Kyle Schwarber wants to be 'the most versatile DH,' to help Phillies — and his value https://t.co/xCufmBOOtz
— The Athletic MLB (@TheAthleticMLB) February 28, 2025
Although he's accustomed to playing DH, Schwarber also revealed that he doesn't mind seeing action in the field. If he has the opportunity to play some defensive innings, he'll do so if it means giving a teammate a much-needed breather.
"There is still a part of me that always wants to be in the field... You just kind of miss that aspect of the game sometimes," Schwarber said. "I want to be able to produce any way I can for these guys. If I can get guys off their feet, I want to get guys off their feet."
Schwarber's first-base return lasted five innings without seeing a single ball sent his way. According to Gelb, the plan going forward is to alternate between infield and outfield action, meaning the ex-silver slugger is expected to play in left field during his next appearance.
Wherever Schwarber plays, the Phillies need his bat to be as effective as it was last season. The Middletown, OH native paced the National League with 106 walks as he racked up 38 home runs, 104 RBIs, a career-high 3.5 WAR, and .248/.366/.485 slash line in 150 games (573 at-bats).
Replicating those results (or coming close to it) would go a long way in helping Philadelphia go on a deep postseason run. As it stands, the Phillies are tied for the fourth-best 2025 World Series odds (+1200) on DraftKings Sportsbook as spring training continues.
More Philadelphia Phillies News & Rumors:
Odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.