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Kyle Schwarber hit 15 leadoff home runs for Philadelphia and set the record for the most homers from the No.1 spot in a season. Despite his success, Phillies manager Rob Thomson said that if required, the slugger might be dropped down the order to give the lineup more balance.
During the end of season press conference, Thomson discussed potential plans for the lineup in 2025. When asked about whether they would consider moving someone like Schwarber into a different role, he said that there might be a necessity for the Phillies to go that way if it will produce better results.
"The lineup construction we're gonna get through that and try to figure out a better way to score runs on a consistent basis," Thomson said (timestamp 19:38). "A little bit more of 'Is there a better way?' 'Is it best to have Kyle on the leadoff spot?' Don't know, we have won a lot of games with him in the lead off so we will have to think about this."
Thomson was also asked a more direct question whether the designated hitter would continue to be in the position or if the team would go out in the market and sign a new leadoff batter.
"I think it would be here and now," Thomson said (timestamp 26:53). "Some people might have to change their approach a little and all that but I don't think it's the best thing to do to move Kyle out of the leadoff spot because he's that good at it but it may help protect other people."
Kyle Schwarber's unique leadoff-hitting spot might be reason for change
Usually, leadoff batters manage a high batting average and reach base regularly. But in Kyle Schwarber's case, he has swung more, which has generated more strikeouts out of him. However, he has balanced that with a good command of the strike zone and earning more walks.
He had 197 strikeouts, but also 106 walks along with 38 home runs. Schwarber's average improved to .248 from an uncharacteristic .197 last year. This might have left some doubt in the management about whether he would do better as a cleanup hitter with runners on base.
