Bryce Harper is likely getting closer to a free agency decision now that fellow superstar Manny Machado has signed a deal with the San Diego Padres, and it sounds like he wants much more than the $300 million Machado took.
Jon Heyman of Fancred reports that Harper has turned down “multiple offers” over the past several weeks that exceeded $300 million. While the Philadelphia Phillies have consistently been mentioned as the favorites for him, as many as five teams remain in the hunt.
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
ESPN’s Buster Olney hinted this week that he would not be shocked if Harper ends up getting close to $400 million, though any deal of that magnitude would likely include options and incentives. Machado’s deal is worth a guaranteed $300 million over 10 years with an opt-out clause after the fifth season.
Harper is represented by evil genius Scott Boras, so it’s impossible to separate real information from info being planted by the agent to drive up the price. Still, it would be a surprise if Harper’s contract isn’t bigger than Machado’s.
As for which team will be shelling out that money, that is a bit more complicated. Harper is almost certainly going to take the biggest deal, though there have been indications that he may have a preference for where he ends up.
