Fresh off Kyle Schwarber's MVP performance in Tuesday's 2025 All-Star Game, the Phillies on Friday kicked off their march toward hosting the 2026 Midsummer Classic. The festivities started with the "Philadelphia’s 2026 All-Star Declaration" ceremony at historic Dilworth Park in Center City.

Now 32, Schwarber is one of several core Phillies players scheduled to hit free agency after this season, along with catcher J.T. Realmuto and lefty Ranger Suárez. As owner John Middleton said Friday, keeping Schwarber beyond 2025 is a priority. Here's what Middleton told reporters, including the Associated Press:

Citizens Bank Park will host the 2026 MLB All-Star Game and the Phillies on Friday will kick-off celebrations a year ahead of time!