Philadelphia Phillies designated hitter Kyle Schwarber became the first Major League Baseball player to hit 40 home runs in the 2026 season, launching a 425-foot shot off Seattle Mariners pitcher Bryan Woo during a Wednesday afternoon matchup. The 6-0 victory allowed the Phillies to avoid a three-game sweep by the Mariners.
Schwarber’s Historic Power Pace with the Phillies
Schwarber’s milestone marks his second season with at least 40 home runs and his fourth in five campaigns with Philadelphia. He now joins Ryan Howard for the most 40-homer seasons in franchise history. Schwarber’s 227 career home runs with the Phillies stand as the second-highest total for any player during their first five seasons with a single franchise, trailing only Babe Ruth, who hit 235 home runs with the New York Yankees.
The slugger reached the 30-home run plateau earlier this season at Citi Field in June. After hitting 16 home runs during a prolific June, Schwarber’s pace slowed in July with three long balls, followed by six home runs in August, culminating in a three-hit, five-at-bat performance in Seattle.
Luzardo and Harper Fuel Phillies Victory
Pitcher Jesus Luzardo earned his 12th win of the season against five losses, tossing seven scoreless innings against the Mariners and recording nine strikeouts. That performance pushed Luzardo past the 200-strikeout mark for the 2026 season. Teammate Bryce Harper contributed to the offense by driving in two runs.
Around the League: Key Matchups
In other Major League Baseball action, Tampa Bay Rays pitcher Freddy Peralta (6-11) threw six scoreless innings with just two hits allowed in a 3-0 victory over the Detroit Tigers, where Troy Melton took the loss despite a quality start. The Arizona Diamondbacks defeated the Chicago Cubs 2-0 behind Eduardo Rodriguez, who pitched seven scoreless innings and struck out nine batters, outdueling Matthew Boyd.
Meanwhile, the Cleveland Guardians overcame a 3-0 deficit to beat the Los Angeles Angels 4-3. Travis Bazzana drove in two runs with sacrifice flies, including the game-winner in the top of the ninth inning, as the Angels surrendered eight walks.
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