The Los Angeles Dodgers are still lingering in the free agent discussions involving Bryce Harper, and their presence has apparently been enough to make the Philadelphia Phillies feel uneasy.
According to Jon Morosi of MLB.com, Phillies officials are concerned that Harper could sign with the Dodgers if the offers from the two teams are similar.
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
Part of that concern may stem from the fact that the Colorado Rockies have reportedly agreed to a massive extension with third baseman Nolan Arenado. Morosi notes that Arenado was a player the Dodgers were expected to pursue if he became a free agent next year, and that isn’t going to happen. That could mean they are more willing to spend big on Harper.
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
Reports have indicated that both the Dodgers and San Francisco Giants want to sign Harper to a short-term deal, and the 26-year-old seems unlikely to go for that. Even Dodgers manager Dave Roberts indicated this week that he does not expect the team to land Harper, but perhaps things have changed.
Harper is said to prefer playing on the west coast, and the latest report we heard about the offers he has on the table can’t make the Phillies feel comfortable. Couple that with what has been said about Harper’s feelings toward Philly, and it appears the Dodgers have the advantage if the money is close or the same.
