ESPN’s Jesse Rogers says the Worldwide Leader recently polled 16 MLB executives on what’s ahead during Hot Stove season.

One of the questions asked the respondents to predict which slugger will return to his original team: Schwarber, Red Sox third baseman Alex Bregman, New York Mets first baseman Pete Alonso and New York Yankees outfielder Cody Bellinger.

A total of 15 votes were cast for Schwarber (respondents had the choice to skip any questions). Seven of the votes — almost half — had him returning to Philadelphia.

Swing And Miss?

“The Phillies need Schwarber more than he needs them, so in pure contract terms, they may have to overpay,” one executive said. “But he’s worth it. He’ll stay.”

Schwarber is a three-time All-Star and led the National League with a career-high 56 home runs last season.

The runner-up for NL MVP in 2025 has hit at least 38 home runs in each of the last four seasons.

Silver Lining No. 1

If you’re looking for a silver lining, only four executives cast their vote for Alonso, who continues to be linked to the Red Sox.

That said, the home-grown Mets star remains on New York’s radar.

“At this point, Alonso is synonymous as a Met,” another voter said. “He’s the most popular player. And he can hit. They need him.”

The 30-year-old Alonso hit 38 home runs this season, which was eighth-best in the majors, and drove in 126 runs, second only to Schwarber.

Alonso, a two-time Home Run Derby champion and five-time All-Star, spent seven seasons in Queens. This year he became the franchise’s all-time home run leader, surpassing eight-time All-Star Darryl Strawberry.

Silver Lining No. 2

There’s a second silver lining here. Another four executives voted for Bregman to re-sign with the Red Sox.

“Bregman provided so much [leadership] for Boston and that park is perfect for him,” another executive said.

The 31-year-old Bregman earned his third All-Star nod while playing for Boston in 2025. His .273 batting average and .821 OPS were his highest since 2019. And he still has plenty of pop in his bat, as proven by his 18 home runs and 62 RBIs.

But Bregman also missed almost two months of the 2025 season with a right quad strain. He also is looking for a massive payday after opting out of his three-year, $120 million contract. Current projections have Bregman getting as much as a six-or seven-year deal worth almost $30 million per season.