Bryce Harper Rumors: Phillies, Harper Finalizing Record $330 Million Deal
Bryce Harper remains on the free-agent market on the final day of February, still absent from spring training with one month until 28 teams open their respective 2019 seasons. The Harper market seems to have consolidated in recent days, with the Phillies, Dodgers and Giants now expected to battle for the six-time All-Star.
Where Harper will land amongst the trio remains unknown as the calendar turns to March. Will he side with one of the National League West rivals, or will he travel up the eastern seaboard from Washington to Philadelphia?
Check out the latest Harper news and notes below:
• Harper agreed to a 13-year, $330 million deal with Philadelphia. (Jon Heyman, MLB Network)
• Phillies officials "have grown concerned" Harper will sign with the Dodgers if Los Angeles' offer is close to Philadelphia's. (Jon Morosi, MLB Network)
• The Dodgers have discussed a shorter-term contract with Harper, but are willing to "obliterate" the previous average annual value record. (Bob Nightengale, USA Today)
• The Phillies and Giants are willing to give Harper the, "biggest overall free-agent contract in North American sports history." (Bob Nightengale, USA Today)
• Both the Phillies and Giants are expected to offer Harper a 10-year deal. The Dodgers' potential offer is unknown. (Jon Heyman, MLB Network)
• Harper met with Giants officials for the second time on Tuesday alongside agent Scott Boras. (Kerry Crowley, Bay Area News Group)
• Nolan Arenado's extension with the Rockies created additional salary room for the Dodgers to potentially sign Harper. (Jon Morosi, MLB Network)
• Closer Craig Kimbrel could be a potential consolation prize for the Phillies if Harper signs elsewhere. (Steve Phillips, TSN)
