© Richard Mackson | 2016 Oct 10
Another wrench has been thrown into the Bryce Harper sweepstakes.
First the Giants were the favorites to land the former MVP, then the Phillies, then the Dodgers re-entered the fray last weekend. Now they may be the favorites according to a report by Jon Morosi of MLB Network. The Phillies are apparently concerned that Harper would prefer to sign with Los Angeles if they make an offer that comes close to the long-term deal Philadelphia has reportedly offered.
Bryce Harper update: Some #Phillies officials have grown concerned Harper will sign with the #Dodgers if they make an offer that comes close to Philly’s. The ability to play close to home and train in Arizona both appeal to Harper, who is a @Lakers fan. @MLB @MLBNetwork
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) February 26, 2019
More on #Dodgers as possible Bryce Harper destination: As a wise baseball friend reminded me, the Dodgers’ front office was known to admire Nolan Arenado, who as of today is no longer an option. Suddenly, there is more room in the team’s future budget. @MLB @MLBNetwork
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) February 26, 2019
The Dodgers are reportedly offering a short-term deal, while the Phillies offer is assumed to be at least as long and more lucrative than the 10-year, $300 million offer Manny Machado received from the Padres last week. Harper had reportedly been unwilling to sign a short-term deal, but it’s possible that has changed as he remains un-signed in the second week of spring training.
Harper has given no indication that he is willing to bend on his desire for a long-term contract, sources told ESPN’s Jeff Passan.
It’s unclear where the Giants stand at this point, but they are no longer considered the favorite to land Harper that they were two weeks ago. San Francisco has also reportedly been only interested in offering Harper a short-term deal, speculated to be around seven-years in length.
The six-time All-Star outfielder batted only .249 in 2018 but had 34 home runs and 100 RBIs and came on strong after the All-Star break.