As winter meetings intensify, the Phillies remain active in free-agent talks with Kyle Schwarber and Harrison Bader, while the Mets have emerged as a potential wild-card threat for Schwarber.

On the eve of the Winter Meetings truly getting underway, the Philadelphia Phillies’ free-agent outlook is beginning to take shape, with two familiar names in the spotlight.

According to Ken Rosenthal, the Pittsburgh Pirates have made a four-year offer to free-agent slugger Kyle Schwarber. The Phillies remain in discussions with Schwarber as well, but per MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand, talks between the two sides have been described as “slow.” Schwarber remains a priority target, but competition could push negotiations into more complex territory as the week progresses.

Meanwhile, Philadelphia continues evaluating options with Harrison Bader. Rosenthal reports that Bader’s representatives are aiming to leverage his offensive breakout last season into a three-year contract. The Phillies would like to bring the speedy outfielder back, but only if the financial terms align with their roster plans.

Update

During MLB Network’s coverage of the winter meetings, insider Jon Heyman mentioned the New York Mets as a potential “wild card” suitor for Schwarber. With New York still looking to add offensive punch and front office leadership showing a willingness to get creative, the Mets could emerge as a legitimate threat to Philadelphia’s pursuit.

With executives beginning to arrive and negotiations intensifying, clarity could soon emerge. For now, the Phillies remain active, weighing cost, term, and roster fit as the market develops.