During the 2025 MLB All-Star Game, the National League’s comfortable six-run lead vanished quickly, but Kyle Schwarber emerged as the pivotal figure in the game’s thrilling conclusion. Schwarber earned the All-Star MVP honors not through his regular at-bats, but by delivering an extraordinary performance in a dramatic home run swing-off that decided the outcome.
The viewing audience witnessed a rare finish, as several marquee players had already left by the game’s end. Schwarber’s clutch display in this unexpected contest cemented his status, despite an uneventful showing in the initial nine innings. His role in securing the National League’s final win highlighted his value, especially given his standing as a 2016 World Series Champion and a seasoned Philadelphia Phillies star.
How Schwarber Claimed the MVP Without Traditional Hits
Though Schwarber’s early plate appearances in the All-Star Game did not produce any hits—he went 0-2 with a walk in the first nine innings—his impact came alive in the swing-off. Entering the lineup to replace Shohei Ohtani, who was 1-2 with one run and a hit, Schwarber capitalized on the opportunity and launched three home runs, going a perfect 3-for-3. His powerful swings energized the National League and overshadowed the innings where he didn’t record a hit.
MLB insider Jeff Passan highlighted the unexpected player matchups during the event, underscoring that some of the biggest stars, such as Aaron Judge, Shohei Ohtani, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr., were absent, leaving room for lesser-known but equally impactful players to shine.
What is: Brent Rooker, Jonathan Aranda, Randy Arozarena vs. Pete Alonso, Kyle Schwarber, Kyle Stowers. What could have been: Aaron Judge, Cal Raleigh, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. vs. Shohei Ohtani, Pete Alonso, Kyle Schwarber.
—Jeff Passan, MLB Insider
Sequence of Events Leading to the Swing-Off Finale
The National League initially surged ahead with a six-run advantage, bolstered by a four-run sixth inning. The American League fought back hard, posting four runs in the seventh and adding two crucial runs off National League pitchers Robert Suarez and Edwin Diaz in the ninth inning, cutting the deficit to a single run.
As the game’s tension built, Schwarber’s timely arrival to the batter’s box coincided with the must-win scenario. Despite many top players having left to prepare for the rest of the season, Schwarber’s presence proved critical, and his 30 home runs during the regular season, which ranked fifth in the league, gave him the confidence to excel in the clutch.
Even Pete Alonso, a two-time Home Run Derby champion and a key player for the National League, praised Schwarber’s display.
He put on a hell of a show,
—Pete Alonso, New York Mets Hitter
The Impact of Schwarber’s Home Runs on the Game’s Outcome
Schwarber ignited the swing-off by blasting a homer on the very first pitch he faced. After letting a few pitches pass, he connected for two more long balls, pushing the National League ahead 4-3 and ultimately sealing the victory. His three home runs in this sudden-death format were a testament to his immense power and composure under pressure.
Notably, neither Schwarber nor Alonso had participated in the 2025 Home Run Derby earlier in the season, making Schwarber’s swing-off success all the more impressive. Despite being a free agent after the 2025 season, Schwarber’s performance and Philadelphia’s upcoming hosting of the Home Run Derby next year may position him as a top contender for the 2026 edition.
What Schwarber’s Performance Means for His Career and MLB
Kyle Schwarber’s remarkable showing in the 2025 All-Star Game swing-off is a defining moment that adds to his reputation beyond regular season or postseason accolades. His ability to rise when the stakes were highest, particularly at an event where many star players were absent, reflects his resilience and clutch hitting ability.
Looking ahead, Schwarber’s momentum could influence his free agency decisions and the Philadelphia Phillies’ efforts to retain him, especially with the Home Run Derby returning to his home city. This performance not only earned him the All-Star MVP but also reasserted his role as one of MLB’s most formidable power hitters.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Does Kyle Schwarber walk a lot?
A. Actually, no other Phillies player walked at least ten times in May. Schwarber is known for his powerful hits. Although he strikes out frequently, he balances this by earning many walks. This season is no different. In the first 59 games, his batting average is .266.
Q. How many times has Kyle Schwarber struck out?
A. He had a .197 batting average, hit 47 home runs, and earned 104 RBIs. He also walked 126 times and struck out 215 times, the most in MLB.