Bryce Harper Rumors: Where Phillies, White Sox, Nationals Stand In Free Agent Pursuit

As the Bryce Harper sweepstakes heats up, it appears at least one of the right-fielder’s potential suitors feels optimistic about their chances to land him. Though Harper left his recent meeting with the Philadelphia Phillies without a deal in place, the Phillies are reportedly optimistic about their chances to sign him, the Philadelphia Inquirer reported.

The Phillies met with Harper on Saturday in Las Vegas, in a meeting that included Harper’s wife and most of Philadelphia’s top brass. General manager Matt Klentak said he felt good about the meeting, even though Harper did not sign whatever deal the Phillies may have put in front of him that day.

Of course, Harper’s first team would like for things to go differently. The Washington Nationals extended Harper a 10-year, $300 million offer at the end of the year, which Harper declined in order to test the waters in free agency. As recently as last week, there were rumblings around the major leagues that Harper would most likely return to Washington on a new deal rather than leave in free agency.

The only other team considered in on the Harper chase is the Chicago White Sox, but it seems they are long shots compared to Philadelphia and Washington at the moment. Their best chance may be for the Phillies to sign Manny Machado, leaving them with less money to sign Harper, too.

If that happens, the White Sox might be able to swoop in and land Harper. However, reports indicate the Phillies might try to get both Machado and Harper.

The Phillies think they can get at least one of the two young superstars, according to MLB.com.