Latest MLB Rumors On Dallas Keuchel, Craig Kimbrel After Philadelphia Phillies Sign Bryce Harper

Now that Bryce Harper and Manny Machado are off the market, two pitchers have become the top players in free agency. With the 2019 MLB season set to start in less than a month, starter Dallas Keuchel and reliever Craig Kimbrel remain available.

Kimbrel reportedly began the offseason seeking a deal in excess of $100 million. Keuchel might have had his eyes on a similar contract when Patrick Corbin received $140 million from the Washington Nationals in early December.

Both Kimbrel and Keuchel might have to settle for far less than what they were once hoping to get in free agency. MLB teams seem wary of giving them long-term contracts at a high annual value.

The Philadelphia Phillies have been viewed as a player for the two free agents. Is that still the case after they agreed to give Harper a 13-year, $330 million contract?

It sounds like Philadelphia would only be willing to give Kimbrel or Keuchel a short-term contract. The Phillies have already had the busiest offseason of any team.

In addition to signing Harper, Philadelphia traded for All-Stars J.T. Realmuto and Jean Segura. The Phillies signed veteran outfielder Andrew McCutchen to a three-year, $50 million contract and gave reliever David Robertson $23 million over two years.

The Cincinnati Reds reportedly had interest in Keuchel earlier this winter. There’s a chance Keuchel could re-sign with the Houston Astros if the left-hander drops his asking price. The San Diego Padres might be looking to upgrade their rotation after signing Machado.

According to ESPN.com’s Buster Olney, rival executives have wondered if the Nationals might consider signing Kimbrel. The Minnesota Twins could be an option for Kimbrel after signing the likes of Marwin Gonzalez and Nelson Cruz. The Boston Red Sox seem comfortable moving on from the closer.

The Atlanta Braves have been viewed as a possibility for both players, though they won’t give either one a nine-figure contract.