Since 1992, the Major League Baseball Players Association has run the “Players' Choice Awards” program, one that acknowledges success both on and off the field. Active major league players are the participants for these awards and the ones who vote among their peers.
This year, two members of the Phillies have been honored. Starting pitcher Aaron Nola and designated hitter Kyle Schwarber received nominations and were selected for awards.
Nola was bestowed with the Philanthropist of the Year award, given to the player who excels off the field by giving back to their community. Nola’s work with Team Red, White & Blue, an organization that helps veterans remain active and live healthy lifestyles upon their return home, is one that hits close to home.
Schwarber was given an award for his dominant play on the field in 2025. The club’s All-Star was given the National League Outstanding Player award. Schwarber was certainly outstanding in 2025 and could anchor that success into a National League Most Valuable Player award this winter.
Team Red, White & Blue is active all across the United States in their efforts to support veterans. The Philadelphia Phillies’ right-hander has been very involved with the group, hosting three charity events in Philadelphia over the past few years.
In 2023 and 2024, Nola held “Bowling for the Troops” at Brooklyn Bowl in Philly. Joined by his teammates, members of the front office, and other Phillies personnel, these events focused on raising money for Team RWB.
In 2025, Nola took his annual event to the next level. The “ace” pivoted to a poker tournament held at Citizens Bank Park. Once again joined by his fellow Phillies, Nola succeeded once more in hosting a tremendous event.
While his work with veterans is near and dear to his heart, that is not the only place Nola dedicates his time off the field. The veteran is very active in the Philadelphia community, working with Philabundance in South Philly to end hunger. Nola and the Phillies teamed up for “Strike Out Hunger” with Phans Feeding Families Night at the ballpark.
Fans were encouraged to bring food donations to the game, where there were designated drop-off sections. This food went right back into the Philadelphia area, helping those in need.
Paired with his own generous donations towards these causes, Nola has proven to walk the walk when it comes to philanthropy. He doesn’t do it for the praise, but the honor and recognition are sure to be a good feeling for number 27.
Back on the diamond, the Phillies were led by their star slugger.
Schwarber was absolutely dominant in 2025, leading the National League in home runs (56) and leading all of Major League Baseball in runs batted in (132). He played in all 162 games for the Phillies this season, as well as their four postseason games against the Dodgers. Schwarber’s 23 home runs against left-handed pitching were the most ever by a left-handed hitter.
The soon-to-be free agent has enjoyed four brilliant years in a Phillies uniform. This past season was by far his best, and he is expected to be rewarded for his performance with a large contract. Schwarber hit 187 home runs as a member of the Phillies and played in 97 percent of the club’s games in that span. He is a leader both on and off the field for the Philadelphia Phillies.
Schwarber joins Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh as the MLBPA’s Outstanding Players of the Year. Schwarber will certainly be a finalist for the National League Most Valuable Player award, battling with the Los Angeles Dodgers’ Shohei Ohtani.
