Blue Jays: Last offseason interests and how they are doing so far this year

Kyle Schwarber

Signed with the Philadelphia Phillies on a four-year, $79 million deal

One of the top left-handed power bats on the open market this past offseason, it only made sense that the Blue Jays would be interested in Kyle Schwarber.

After being non-tendered by the Cubs two years ago, Schwarber found success last year with the Washington Nationals and Boston Red Sox, earning a .928 OPS on the year while mashing 32 home runs with 71 RBI. The Blue Jays were considered front runners to land Schwarber, given the club needed some bats from the left side amongst their right-handed heavy lineup, as well as Schwarber’s ability to play first base, left field, and slot in as the DH.

When all was said and done, the Ohio product inked a four-year deal with the Phillies.

So far in 2022, the former Cubs’ top prospect has struggled to find any rhythm as a member of the Phillies, slashing .194/.308/.426 with a .734 OPS. His ten home runs have him tied for sixth in the National League and he is starting to turn around his slow start to the year, albeit still hitting below the Mendoza line and a ways away from his solid 2021 stats.