The Philadelphia Phillies are patiently waiting for Kyle Schwarber’s batting average to catch up to his HR and RBI production
There was genuine excitement in the City of Brotherly Love in March when the Philadelphia Phillies signed Kyle Schwarber to a free-agent contract.
The high-profile acquisition recharged fans after the 99-day MLB lockout, which had ended the week before. Phils owner John Middleton forked over $79 million to acquire Schwarber, so the expectations surrounding the talented slugger are certainly on the high side.
Schwarber started his stint in Philly with a bang, hitting a 426-foot home run during his very first at-bat with his new squad. It was a fantastic way to get things going, but hits have been somewhat hard to come by for Schwarber ever since.
With a quarter of the 2022 campaign now in the books, Schwarber’s batting average with the Phillies has been less than acceptable. Through 42 games, the left-fielder is hitting .197 at the moment, a number that is 40 points less than his career average in the majors prior to this season.
Philadelphia Phillies are getting ample HR and RBI production out of Kyle Schwarber
While his batting average has been disappointing, Schwarber’s HR and RBI totals are more than adequate. Unfortunately, with his low batting average and high strikeout count, it’s hard to describe his hitting as prolific.
Schwarber is currently tied for the team lead in home runs. As of May 24th, he and Bryce Harper lead the lineup with 10 dingers apiece.
Schwarber has managed to drive in more than his fair share of runs for Philadelphia as well. The Ohio native has registered 22 RBI, trailing only Harper (31) and Rhys Hoskins (23) in that department.
The 2021 All-Star has plenty of time to get his batting average up to a respectable number. If he can, Schwarber will endear himself even more to a Phillies fanbase that is excited to have him.
Joe Girardi’s bullpen strategy is killing the Philadelphia Phillies
Joe Girardi's bullpen management is meant to prevent pitcher injuries, but what it's really doing is preventing the Phillies from winning.