Bryce Harper remains unsigned, but apparently, it’s not for a lack of teams trying.
MLB Network insider Jon Heyman reported Harper is believed to have turned down “multiple” offers worth more than $300 million over the last few weeks. At least five teams — the Philadelphia Phillies, San Francisco Giants, Chicago White Sox, San Diego Padres and the Washington Nationals — are still believed to be in contact with the six-time All-Star free agent, Heyman reported.
Heyman said the Phillies, Giants and Nationals appear to have better shots at landing Harper than San Diego or Chicago.
But adding to the confusion, another insider — USA Today’s Bob Nightengale — reported the White Sox are “out” on Harper.
These are the latest rumors involving Harper. Fans, players and executives are eager to see where the 26-year-old lands — especially in the light of Manny Machado agreeing to a 10-year, $300 million deal Monday with the Padres.
Heyman also reported the Giants aren’t “overly optimistic” they’ll sign Harper, but have also been telling other people they have been trying hard to do so.
As for the Phillies, according to SNY’s Andy Martino, Harper is “unsure” if he wants to play in Philadelphia. Maybe $350 million-or-so will convince him otherwise.
Bryce Harper is believed to have turned down multiple offers over 300M in recent weeks. at least 5 teams are believed still in contact, tho Philly, SF and perhaps Wash appear to have more chance than SD (just gave 300M to Manny) and CWS (seemed more focused on MM)
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) February 20, 2019
The #SFGiants are telling people they are trying hard for Harper (this likely debunks the short-term theory for them, as it’s known Harper isn’t signing short-term deal). However, people who have spoken to SF brass said they aren’t necessarily overly optimistic.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) February 20, 2019
The Chicago #WhiteSox, who are out of the Bryce Harper sweepstakes, still plan to make some smaller improvements to team after Manny Machado chose the #Padres. Versatile infielders Marwin Gonzalez and Josh Harrison, along with starter Gio Gonzalez, still on the free-agent board.
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) February 20, 2019
Have been hearing lately Bryce Harper unsure about Philly. They’d better convince him for their sake.
— Andy Martino (@martinonyc) February 19, 2019
Harper, Dallas Keuchel and Craig Kimbrel remain on the market just ahead of the start of spring training games this week.
Players have criticized teams for not spending to land top available stars and started to push for significant changes in the collective bargaining agreement, which runs through the 2021 season.
⦁ Based in part on wire service reports.
• Matthew Paras can be reached at mparas@washingtontimes.com.
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