Bryce Harper Rumors: Philadelphia Phillies' Offer Might Not Be As Lucrative As Previously Reported

Bryce Harper Washington Nationals — Bryce Harper #34 of the Washington Nationals runs the bases before scoring against the Philadelphia Phillies during the first inning at Nationals Park on August 22, 2018 in Washington, DC. Patrick Smith/Getty Images

For weeks, there have been various rumors regarding what the Philadelphia Phillies are willing to pay Bryce Harper. Fans are waiting for owner John Middleton to spend “stupid” money to ensure the team signs a star player before the 2019 MLB season.

After missing out on Manny Machado, Philadelphia has been expected to make Harper the biggest offer. Multiple reports have said they’ve presented the free agent with a contract worth more than $300 million. There have also been indications that the Phillies have met Harper’s demand to get a deal more lucrative than Giancarlo Stanton’s record-setting $325 million contract.

Harper remains unsigned with only a month left until Opening Day. It could be a sign that the outfielder simply doesn’t want to play in Philadelphia, but maybe the Phillies aren’t exactly willing to break the bank for the six-time All-Star.

SNY.tv’s Andy Martino has reported that Harper and Philadelphia are still far apart on a potential contract. Former major-league general manager Jim Duquette said on MLB Network Radio that the Phillies’ offer is between $270 million and $300 million.

It’s never been merely the player’s questions about the Phillies. The team has so far held firm on money too. The issue is on both sides.
— Andy Martino (@martinonyc) February 28, 2019

You either want the player or you don't. Time for the Phillies to show us which it is.pic.twitter.com/mRXpZCBWwV
— Joe Giglio (@JoeGiglioSports) February 28, 2019

Matt Klentak, the GM of the #Phillies, said the Padres went beyond where the Phils were willing to go. That means either 10 years or $30M per was too much. So where is the line drawn for Harper?
— Steve Phillips (@StevePhillipsGM) February 22, 2019

When Machado signed a 10-year, $300 million contract with the San Diego Padres, Phillies’ general manager Matt Klentak admitted that the deal exceeded their valuation of the infielder. Considering members of the front office reportedly preferred Machado to Harper, it might make sense that Philadelphia hasn’t met the free agent’s asking price.

Harper is reportedly determined to make history with his deal. If he’s not going to break Stanton’s record, he’ll want to at least sign for the highest average salary.

Nolan Arenado’s new contract gives him the record for position players with an average annual value of $33.4 million. Zack Greinke owns the record for any player with a $34.4 million AAV.

The San Francisco Giants have emerged as a real threat to the Phillies with their reported willingness to made a decade-long commitment to Harper. If the money is equal, Harper is expected to choose the Bay Area over Philadelphia.

The Los Angeles Dodgers are Harper’s top choice, but they probably won’t make him a 10-year offer. Maybe if Philadelphia’s offer isn’t north of $300 million, Harper would go to L.A. for a shorter deal with a record AAV.

Some believe that Harper is still looking to sign for at least $350 million.

Major league baseball