Bryce Harper Rumors: Mystery Teams Lurking, 4 Known Suitors Haven't Made Desired Contract Offer

There have been rumors about “mystery teams” trying to pursue Bryce Harper and Manny Machado for months. With neither player seemingly getting their desired contract offer from an organization that’s been reported to have met with them, the door is open for other clubs to try and sign one of MLB’s best free agents.

There are four known suitors for Harper. The Washington Nationals, Philadelphia Phillies, Chicago White Sox, and most recently the San Diego Padres have sat down with the outfielder in hopes of acquiring him for the 2019 season and beyond. Representatives from the Los Angeles Dodgers had a meeting with Harper early in the offseason, but they seem to have pulled out of the race when they signed A.J. Pollock a few weeks ago.

Former Cincinnati Reds’ general manager and current MLB analyst Jim Bowden has reported that there do appear to be legitimate unknown teams in the Bryce Harper Sweepstakes. It’s anybody’s guess, however, as to which teams are making a secret play for the 26-year-old.

It’s long been speculated that Harper would sign a historic contract this offseason. Giancarlo Stanton set a record four years ago when he landed a $325 million deal. Zack Greinke was given the highest average salary ever a year later when he signed a six-year contract worth $206.5 million.

Washington reportedly offered Harper a 10-year, $300 million contract at the end of the regular season. Philadelphia might be able to surpass that by a significant margin with their ability to spend “stupid” money this offseason, though Harper would likely be signed if they already made such an offer.

The Phillies are expected to make the biggest offer to either Harper or Machado. The White Sox are pursuing both players, and the infielder appears to be their top target.

It’s unknown exactly how much money San Diego is willing to spend since they’ve got one of the lowest payrolls in baseball. The Padres gave Eric Hosmer and eight-year, $144 million contract last offseason that didn’t exactly pay off in 2018.

Harper hit .249/.393/.496 with 34 home runs and 100 RBI in 159 games last season. He made the NL All-Star team for a fourth straight year and the sixth time in his seven career MLB seasons.