Inside The Phillies

Could Philadelphia Phillies Really Give Harper A Massive Extension?

The Philadelphia Phillies could look into the possibility of giving Bryce Harper an extension.
Could Philadelphia Phillies Really Give Harper A Massive Extension?
Could Philadelphia Phillies Really Give Harper A Massive Extension?

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The Philadelphia Phillies signed one of the best players of this generation to one of the most team-friendly contracts in the sport's history when they acquired Bryce Harper.

The 13-year, $330 million contract includes no opt-outs, a testament to his commitment to the city and finishing his career in Philadelphia, and ultimately, a champion. 

However, his agent, the notorious, yet highly effective Scott Boras is already talking about a possible extension. Boras broached the topic while on "The Show" podcast. Boras mentioned now may be the right time to pursue a contract extension with the superstar. 

Harper has eight years left to go on his contract and taking into account inflation, rising costs of contracts and the money being infused into baseball, it's beyond a bargain. 

While the Phillies have not commented on the matter according to the New York Post, owner John Middleton has always been one to do right by his team and players. 

However, as the Post points out, Harper's contract has been able to drive more talent towards South Philly and has allowed them to build out one of the most talented and effective rosters in the league. 

Harper made his commitment to the team for a reason and included no opt-outs for that same reason. The franchise has made it to consecutive National League Championship Series, largely in part due to Harper's performance, but the additional talent that has walked through the doors thanks to the financial flexibility his contract has afforded him.

Does Harper deserve a contract extension so he can earn more towards what he is worth? Absolutely.

Will the team oblige? Perhaps.

But is that what Harper really wants, the optics of it and the potential financial repercussions the team may face?

That's an entirely different matter and only he knows the answer to that one.


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Kade Kistner
KADE KISTNER

Kade Kistner is the publisher and beat writer for Sports Illustrated's Inside the Phillies. An alumnus of Tulane University, Kade graduated in 2017 with a degree in Latin American Studies and a minor in Spanish. Upon graduation, Kade commissioned into the United States Navy and attended Naval Flight School in Pensacola, Fl. He served as a Naval Aviator and was stationed in Jacksonville, Fl.  During his time in school and the Navy, Kade began covering the MLB and NFL with USA Today, SB Nation, and Sports Illustrated.  Kade covered the New Orleans Saints, Texas Rangers, and numerous other teams within the Sports Illustrated network before launching Inside the Phillies, Inside the Astros, and Inside the Cubs. You can follow him on Twitter at @KadeKistner, or if you have any questions or comments he can be reached via email at kwkistner@gmail.com.