Phillies news and rumors 12/1: Kyle Schwarber does not undergo knee procedure

Kyle Schwarber hit 47 home runs in 2023. (Cheryl Pursell)

Philadelphia Phillies slugger Kyle Schwarber’s right knee may have been hindered this past season, but surgery has not been an option this winter.

While the 30-year-old played on a bothersome knee in 2023, he’s avoided any sort of procedure on it this offseason, according to Todd Zolecki of MLB.com from Wednesday. Schwarber instead has opted work on rehabilitating the knee ahead of next year.

The left-handed hitter has never been the fleetest of foot in his nine years as a big leaguer, but his mobility issues were especially apparent in Philadelphia this year. Schwarber’s defensive range — already lackluster — was further limited as he logged negative-21 defensive runs saved in only 103 games in left field compared to his minus-14 mark in 139 games in 2022. By the start of the postseason, he was forced exclusively into the designated hitter role due to his struggles in the field. Additionally, Schwarber stole no bases in 2023 with only two attempts; he swiped 10 bases in 11 tries the previous season.

Despite being less mobile, Schwarber was effective once again out of the leadoff spot in his second season in Philadelphia. Of course, he didn’t hit for average, but provided the on-base skills and pop that he’s known for. Schwarber slashed .197/.343/.474 with a majors-high 215 strikeouts and 47 home runs.

That power impact should be at the top of the Phillies order again in 2024, and perhaps a little more swiftness might make an appearance as well if Schwarber’s knee can recover.

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