8:32pm: There is a meeting, Heyman tweets, but the matter of Harper’s destination has yet to be decided. Other teams are still involved at this point.
8:14pm: Private planes and visits to Las Vegas have featured prominently throughout the courtship of free agent outfielder Bryce Harper, and that’s true again tonight. Phillies owner John Middleton — or, at least, his jet — is currently gracing the tarmac in Harper’s hometown, a source tells Jim Salisbury of NBC Sports Philly (Twitter link).
“Team Bryce” (presumably, the player, his wife, his agent Scott Boras, and others) is also in Sin City at the moment, Jon Heyman of MLB Network reports (Twitter link). That makes it easy to imagine a forthcoming late-night rendezvous between representatives of the open market’s most willing spender and its biggest star — though Heyman adds that Middleton appears to be on his own, without president Andy MacPhail or GM Matt Klentak.
Of course, we’ve yet to hear any specific indication that a meeting is in the works. At this stage of the proceedings, though, even the (seemingly strong) possibility warrants close attention. Harper, after all, took center stage when Manny Machado recently signed a ten-year, $300MM pact with the Padres. He was joined in the spotlight by the Phils, who came in third in the bidding for Machado after entering the winter with expectations of landing a superstar.
These sides have held an in-person pow-wow already, back in early January. That was perhaps more of a meet-and-great. It’s fair to wonder whether a repeat visit is designed to finalize agreement on what promises to be a very large contract. Middleton and Boras combined last winter to deliver Jake Arrieta to his new home on a private jet; it could be they’re making similar arrangements now.
The market developments have remained mysterious since Machado reportedly agreed to terms. Word emerged (see here and here) that the Phillies felt in command, with the Giants still involved, the Padres trying to see if they could somehow finagle a stunning double-play, and the White Sox bowing out of contention. Today, the Nationals seemingly indicated they were on the sidelines.
xabial
Noooo way!!! I call TMZ on this report.
Talk to me when Harper gets his signature on dotted line
Syndergaarden Cop
loser
JPADA
You can’t have them all yankee boy. Even your hero said the same.
Bocephus
Who’s his hero?
xabial
He’s talking about Cashman saying:
“Yankees GM Brian Cashman on missing out on Manny Machado: ‘You can’t have them all’
I interpret it: “youre saying there’s a chance?”
(Regards to Yanks’ chances of signing Harper)
cbssports.com/mlb/news/yankees-gm-brian-cashman-on…
imindless
Does anyone actually like @xabial
VonPurpleHayes
He’s harmless.
JPADA
He know’s who I’m talking about.
dugdog83
They don’t know we know they know.
trace
he needs to start using that beagle avatar again.
xxbooradley
I dislike people that shame/promote him.
Dogs
I like his Avatar, Reminds me of the Pink Floyd Album Cover for Relics.
Oxford Karma
I can’t believe people who pretend to hate Xabial spend so much time commenting about him. You all are some closet fanboys. Very strange, and a little creepy.
Mattimeo09
Even if the Phillies don’t sign him, the Yankees have no want or need for him despite your wishes.
Keep burying your head in the sand if you cannot handle the truth
Dodgethis
Why would anyone talk to you?
ColossusOfClout
Harper will sign for 10 years/330 million.
captainsalty
11/333 with the Phillies or a shorter, higher AAV deal with the Dodgers after they sneak in and pull off a last minute pitch
BobSacamano
3 years/110m..just in time for the new contract
coach him
Hats off to Middleton. Probably decided enough of this crap, let’s just him and I sit down man to man and get this thing done. it’s my money and if Gabe or something else is the issue he will solve it. I like it. A few years back J-Roll said Middleton is the mini Steinbrenner so now we’re going to see it and put this thing to rest one way or another this weekend. Wont be long before Mcfailure is no longer president.
DadsInDaniaBeach
Okay, your last sentence was a winner for me.
imgman09
Save it Philly,wait for Philly Native and best Player in the World Mike Trout who will leave LA
VonPurpleHayes
Why not both? Dangerous to assume they’re going to land Trout, but a 330/10 deal does not put Philly out of the running for future free agents.
Cat Mando
imgman09…..He’s not a Philly Native
Oxford Karma
He’s from New Jersey
xXabial
what did TMZ say…houws your sources? btw machado is not a Yankee. you got schooled on predictions…bb1600 stands r blowbrothers thru 1600
BrewersMVP08
can you finally stfu
xabial
BrewersMVP08,
No. You’re a phony.
In Kershaw injury thread:
“Bryce barely hit .250!”
In Harper meets Phillies Owner thread: (this one)
I make a post saying not buying “meeting” has any significance until Harper’s signature on the line.
Even though he doesn’t care about Harper…
“Can you finally stfu.”
No. Can you go find your safe space? Brewers never won WS, right? Part of me hopes they win one day. Maybe you’ll be less miserable!
todd76
Harper is going to look good in that Phillie uniform.
hswhitak
Haha go away troll. No one needs you.
highplainsdriftr
Kinda sad how far the Phillies are having to go to bring him in….when nobody else seems to be that interested in him. I guess he’ll take their 325 million. But says something about how much he REALLY wants to be there.
brian214
Ever dawn on you that he’s holding out for the offer that would top Stanton’s and now Machado’s contracts? Pretty simple concept considering his own ego and that of his agent.
Philly is best fit/most desirable if he actually likes playing for a contender moving forward unless LAD, NYY, and/or Wash have a change of heart and jumps back in the mix.
njbirdsfan
I’ll never understand how the Mets, who are widely considered a joke of a franchise, have as many WS championships as Philly, who’s only had an 80 year head start as has as many championships but they’re a contender.
VonPurpleHayes
It has nothing to do with him not wanting to be there. That is absolute nonsense. If he doesn’t want to play in Philly, he won’t take their offer.
Find me one single quote about Harper not wanting to play in Philly.
Boras is doing what Boras does. Letting media outlets stir the pot to get last minute offers and increase the bidding.
It has nothing to do with not wanting anything. It’s a business move.
highplainsdriftr
He hasn’t taken it yet has he? And presumably it’s been around since the beginning, they were the ones that said ‘stupid money’ right? Yes, I understand they were waiting because they want the highest contract. But you really think a division opponent who stood in the outfield in Philly 8-10 times a year getting himself, his faith, his wife, and whatever else the Philly sports fans could muster wouldn’t be eager to suddenly call it home? If his religion is important as you may think, that stuff probably didn’t sit well (I know he probably got it everywhere- but frequency and vulgarity of Philly may be unique) and the Mormon community is strong in the west. The idea that he doesn’t want to play in Philly isn’t that far fetched….. kids don’t grow up everywhere dreaming of playing for the Phillies
VonPurpleHayes
Harper has criticized Mets fans in the past (which seemed odd), but never Philly fans.
Stop believing the false narrative. Philly fans are the same as any other city’s fans. You think people are magically different based on their team?
Ridiculous. If Harper takes less money to play somewhere else then, I’ll buy this silly story of Harper having something against Philly. Until then I call nonsense.
highplainsdriftr
That’s pretty flawed reasoning. My original post suggested he was signing there, but only because there isn’t another offer. If Yankees, dodgers, or Cubs make the same contract offer he wouldn’t go to philly
VonPurpleHayes
I think he would play for whoever offers him the most money. Of course I agree with that.
In terms of if multiple teams had the same offer? I don’t know. Maybe Harper wants to be the solo face of the franchise. Maybe he likes a short porch. Yankees, Dodgers and Cubs are great franchises, but we have no idea what Harper wants except money. I think it is silly to assume what these players want and don’t want besides momey of course.
captainsalty
He hates Philly and even drew an X across it on the globe he has in his home library with many leather bound books
VonPurpleHayes
Haha. I mean that’s what people seem to think. It must be true.
nonadhominem
Kool! Double KOOL! As a Phillies fan I hope he doesn’t sign with the Phillies.
halfbakedmcbride
Totally agree…However, I WILL add that Harper will most likely have to do some “damage control fence mending” after he signs and going forward. I only say that because of how the whole process/timeline has been framed by the media and fans.
Shouldn’t be too hard….just has to explain the FA process and tell people this was his “brass ring” contract blah blah blah, no biggie.
Philly Phans will be VERY understanding and we’ll skip happily along after Bryce signs 🙂
Phanatic 2022
Feels like Phillies are negotiating against themselves at this point.
flippinbats79
I heard both Philadelphia’s owners as well as the Phillies owner both are in Vegas. I hope they don’t cause a bidding war.
KnicksFanCavsFan
excellent.
jorge78
Almost time to see if Harper and Boras can break the “stupid money” record and see if they have the biggest cojones! Our long national nightmare may soon be over!
Drew Waters Bat
Hmmmmm
ronnyalton
@Brave in nebraska: Agreed
kenleyfornia2
They are really having guys stand outside the airport with binoculars to get the latest Harper rumors
coldbeer
I believe info on jet departures and arrivals is publicly available online. Not totally sure tbh.
rocknwell
If you know the tail numbers of the jets (and who they belong to) then yes, you can track those flights using flightradar24.com or similar
jessecc08
they should save their money for Trout
VonPurpleHayes
Trout likely doesn’t leave the Angels, but the Phillies will have plenty of money for Harper and Trout.
captainsalty
Trout will be leaving the Angels if they don’t start making the playoffs consistently again
kenleyfornia2
Yup save it for 2 more years down the line for a player who might not even reach free agency. The fans will like that after their owner said “stupid money”
jorge78
Who was 2nd in the bidding for Machado? I missed that one…..
Mattimeo09
White Sox made the next best offer
jorge78
OK thanks!
JayRyder
Not Going To Philly ! ! !
ZabbiaI
10 years $345 million, multiple opt outs, probably a full no trade clause as well.
jorge78
What? A Xabial impersonator?
dionls
Hahaha! I like the name, hate the original
coldbeer
Not like rich people go to vegas to party and gamble or anything…especially not on a Friday night.
gmenfan
Maybe he’s visiting a massage parlor in a strip mall ? I hear that a popular spot for owners of pro franchises.
Swinging Friars
The popular one in Jupitor was just shut down…. Are they flocking to the more traditional spots?
jorge78
Ouch!
stymeedone
Phillies realize no one else is bidding. Plane flies away.
gmenfan
… and that he’s still not signing with them.
nonadhominem
Fine by me.
Greg M
Keeping tabs on the possible whereabouts of team owners private jets? Awesome stuff Harvey Levin, er Jeff Todd! Any reports on what Bryce and his wife are wearing to dinner tonight?
luclusciano
Both have on jeans and a t- shirt. Last reports were his wife was wearing a #99 jersey and Bryce wasn’t happy about it.
soxandpats
Nothing wrong with wearing a Gretzky jersey, he is the great one, something Harper will never be called.
david klein
Bryce Harper the decision on the mlb network coming soon.
jorge78
LOL
timewalk42
.249 BA I am worth the largest contract in history
jdgoat
Now do the important stats
garner 1977
How about 1.2 war last year? 111 games played in 2017?
JPADA
How many times did you watch Bryce play last year? I watch enough to know he was getting really tired of seeing no strikes and started swinging at balls. Pitchers are scared to throw him a strike, wonder why that is? Maybe because he’s a great hitter?
103 runs, 100 rbi’s, 34 hr’s, .393 obp, 133 ops+ and that is his floor, his ceiling is much higher.
Not sure why I bother, ignorance is bliss with the majority is seems.
luclusciano
It’s not worth the time anymore.
Dorothy_Mantooth
If Harper gets $34M/yr, what will the vastly superior Trout & Betts make in 2021? Both with be 28 years old (vs. Harper @ 26) but I’m talking AAV here and not total contract value. Will Mookie or Trout be the first $40M/Yr player? I’m sorry but these salaries are getting out of control. I remember when you could buy a bleacher seat ticket at Fenway for $6.00. Now their worst seats start at around $30 and box seats are well North of $100.
Everyone talks about MLB revenues being higher than ever but that is due in part to rising TV revenues (which in turn makes Comcast / cable bills outrageous for the consumer) and massive ticket price and food price increases by the teams.
While I am lucky to say that I have the financial means to afford these ticket prices and go to 10+ games per year, MLB is pricing their future fans out of the game. For semi-decent seats, it will cost a family of 4 around $300 to go a game when you factor in ticket prices, food & parking. The greed on both sides is killing the one professional sport that used to be affordable to middle class families given the large venues and 162 game schedule. This chasing revenue madness has to stop sometime. It’s already having an impact today as 50% + of the MLB teams cannot sell their stadiums out on a regular basis. At some point both owners and players are going to have to agree to hit the reset button, take a little less money and work on building their middle class fan base backup. It’s so sad going to a game and seeing mostly well-to-do ‘fans’ in all of the decent seats versus kids and large groups of young people.
I know this is a pipe dream, but isn’t this country built on dreams? I know I sound like a sour old man, but I’m not. I’m a baseball lover and want future generations to enjoy the game (in person) for years to come.
#MBAA – Make Baseball Affordable Again
JPADA
Yeah well I remember when I could get, 2 packs of baseball cards, a soda in a glass bottle and a snickers bar that was the size of a king size bar all for $1. Now what would that cost? Close to $10 I’d say. Not to mention I can’t even get a soda in a glass bottle anymore, have to drink out of toxic plastic bottles. Are the ball players to blame for that price increase too? Face it our money isn’t worth what it once was.
the kutch
BoSoxWin….you’re spot on, but, neither side gives a rats rear end about us fans….
nonadhominem
You cannot say, based on his track record, definitely whether is his floor or not.
In other words – blather away.
JPADA
Based on his track record I can say he’s anywhere from 11% to 98% better than the ML average.
What that’s worth I don’t know as I’m not the one dishing out the paychecks but I do know if I had a team I sure would want him on it. There’s not too many outfielders I’d rather have over him. Trout and Betts, possibly Judge or maybe Acuna, nobody else really comes to mind.
nonadhominem
To be clear (and you can find evidence of it in my other posts), I’ve never said I did not want Harper on the Phillies.
I’ve stated that IMO he will not be worth the contract he gets and that because of his injury history and inconsistency the contract represents more risk than I believe the team should be taking.
If he could be signed at a lower price I’d be in favor of bringing him on – but he cannot be, so I am not for it.
In short – I am opposed to the potential contract – not the player.
VonPurpleHayes
BA is the most irrelevant stat these days.
nonadhominem
For the most part – I agree. But you have to get hits – BA – to drive in runs and score.
Yes, OBP has the greatest correlation with scoring runs, but not everyone can walk their way around the bases.
Marc (Phillies Phan)
Gotta disagree. Maybe BA is irrelevant to some; but then Tony Gwynn and Ted Williams maybe would not be in the hall of fame. We cannot throw stats out because they are not convenient to a conversation. This is not politics where the facts only apply when it fits the narrative. BA is not the be all, end all, but it is very relevant. So is how many games played, walks, strike outs, WAR, etc.
I watched him too in 2018 a lot. I still do NOT want him (eyeball stat),
Yeti
Harper doesn’t want to play in Philly. Due to their strong and continued interest, it only makes perfect sense for Boras to string them along and use them as a prop.
If Harper actually wanted to play in Philly he would have already signed there. They are just using Philly’s interest to get the other teams to up their offers.
ruffintumble 2
He must not want to play anywhere considering he’s still unsigned.
Mrivers
Actually Harper wanted the Dodgers or Yankees or even Cubs. Phillies are an afterthought but what is left. Who else is in at this point?
VonPurpleHayes
Harper would happily play in Philly with his buddy Hoskins.
This is just Boras being Boras; making sure his client gets all the last-minute bids he needs. Same thing happened last year with Arrieta.
PhilliePhan
Then I guess you thought JD Martinez didn’t want Boston last year. Good news, you get to be wrong 2 years in a row.
Yeti
You will see, objective Phillies fan.
Syndergaarden Cop
10/$330. No need to bid against yourselves.
VonPurpleHayes
Yup. Love that offer. Stand firm on that. If he doesn’t take it, bye felicia.
PhanaticDuck26
i also think that’s exactly where it ends up… but yea, who else is really bidding, though? is SF really serious, like 300-million serious?
macstruts
I really hope they sign him. I don’t see how they will have the 400 million to pay Trout.
DadsInDaniaBeach
Sigh! Every team in baseball has the money to sign him..It isn’t if they can, it is if they will..
braveshomer
Braves offer of 1 year/3.5 million still stands Harper!…free Braves hats the whole season is still on the table, although not for long…just sayin
WillieMaysHayes24
Still not funny the 2nd time around…..
Jimcarlo Slaton
But he’s got moxxy, and that drumphs a good sense of humor.
braveshomer
dang come on hahaha…its funny because its true
JPADA
Your not calling your front office cheap are ya? They did give Donaldson over $20M.
braveshomer
yes….yes I am
braveshomer
I’m curious what everyone’s sense of humor level is on here?….so far it’s not so high. A lot are right lipped/butt ha!
Jimcarlo Slaton
I’ll take any lighthearted sense of humor, funny or not, over the usual trash talking suspects.
braveshomer
yeah me too lol…I could care less about the grumpy old curmudgeons patrolling
jorge78
Throw in a free post game Buffett…..
Dorothy_Mantooth
Speaking of, did anyone hear about the contract Manny Ramirez signed in Japan last year?
He got a luxury suite and one of the best hotels in Japan, a full time driver, practice was optional and unlimited sushi! Now that’s how you negotiate a contract! Mr. Boras has a lot to learn…
PhanaticDuck26
does he even listen to Jimmy Buffett?
Marc (Phillies Phan)
I thought it was humorous yesterday.
chicagofan1978
Damn what a bunch of complainers on a free website. I’m sure these guys are getting paid millions to report this stuff that you guys don’t want to see
stansfield123
I dunno about this “I’m staying in Vegas for the winter” strategy by Harper. It’s probably limiting his market. I don’t see the Steinbrenners for instance getting on a plane for Vegas anytime soon, to have an interview with a potential employee who’s refusing to stop by the office.
jdgoat
Seriously? You think teams are out on a superstar talent because he won’t visit them?
stansfield123
Yes.Social skills are every bit as important as technical skills. In every business, including baseball.
jdgoat
Those teams are absolutely moronic then if they are that petty
luclusciano
That’s why we have phones. 🙂
Cat Mando
stansfield123….what does it matter. A club can only “require a Player’s physical presence only once during contract negotiations. This limitation shall not apply to telephone conference calls, at reasonable times, with a Player and his certified Player Agent. A Player required to be physically present during negotiations
during the offseason shall be entitled to be paid by the Club for roundtrip first-class transportation and first-class hotel costs, and a daily meal and tip allowance, at the same rate as the in-season meal and tip allowance provided under Article VII(B) for the immediately preceding season, for that day and any additional travel days.”
Either way the team pays
VegasSDfan
10/310 Padres
Comrade Tipsy McStagger
Bryce Aron Max Harper — initials BAMH. BAMH also stands for Better Access to Mental Health. It also stands for Babies Are Murdered Here. It also stands for Bay Area Montessori House. Based on my deep research, I think it is likely that Harper befalls a string of bad luck after signing with the Giants.
Comrade Tipsy McStagger
I like your logic. You have presented the most scientific, logical, rational argument yet. I’m sold. Off to Vegas to bet the farm on Harper going to the GIants.
Comrade Tipsy McStagger
Thank you for the compliment. I am currently reading the astrological charts (tarot next) to see if I get a confirmation. If you hurry to Vegas, you might catch the team. Try Chucky Cheese.
Comrade Tipsy McStagger
You guys are dark, but fun. BAHM also stands for Bryce Absorbs Hazardous Material. (Sorry — the best I got on the spot.) .
Comrade Tipsy McStagger
And let me say, Tipsy, whoever downvoted you has no clue how to predict the future. Have you thought about shamanism? You’d have to live at the edge of the town, but it probably suits your demeanor.
Comrade Tipsy McStagger
Downvotes are just upvotes by people holding their computer upside down. I know what they really mean. I can’t help it if they don’t know how to use a computer. And shamanism. Well, sometimes the profession calls you and there is nothing you can do about it. Currently I get paid by the Russian government to troll MLB Trade Rumors. The hours suck, and the pay is really bad, and Putin never comes over to play video games. He just calls me up and yells at me to get back to work. But I like punishment, so it suites me just fine.
Comrade Tipsy McStagger
Bryce Alpha Male Harper
Cat Mando
No, it’s Bryce Abuses His Manhood
sethesq
Brooklyn Academy of Music … Homeboy
ASapsFables
Mum’s the word but I heard from a reliable source that they were all leaving Las Vegas for a very discreet meeting at nearby Area 51.
Comrade Tipsy McStagger
Then it’s clear. They are replacing Harper with an alien changeling. I hope he can hit.
Comrade Tipsy McStagger
I think it’s risky replacing Harper with an alien changeling. It is probably better than a faerie changeling, though, because faerie changelings just lay around and complain all day. All they want to do is eat and eat and eat. But they are known for playing the harp. Harper, harp…hmmm…..I think you may be on to something. I think I may be on to something.
Comrade Tipsy McStagger
We should do a comedy show together. I bet we would occasionally hear something other than a boo.
ChiSoxCity
Nothing like a little drinky poo before you hit the road, right Tips?
nonadhominem
Hey – leave my friend, Tipsy, alone!
Equinsu Ocha
I was unaware I had a meeting with you fine people. as it turns out I have a prior engagement. I. plan. to get. DRUNK. thank you
Comrade Tipsy McStagger
When I drink before the road, I always end up having to break out of the trunk. People in a car can be a tough crowd.
nonadhominem
“Equinsu Ocha”, where, and may I imbibe with you?
ASapsFables
AustinKearnsIsNotGod: Rumor has it they were taking a succubus there and an incubus back. I have no idea what lurks in the hangar.
jorge78
That would be better. Who meets in a casino expecting privacy?
PinstripedPride
I’ve been dreaming of Harper for years, but I am resigned to the knowledge he’s not going to the Bronx. Cashman has done many things this winter but it’s still disappointing by Yankee standards. No Machado, no Corbin, no Marwin, no Harper, and probably no Keuchel. Team is still going to be beast and I expect good things this year
VonPurpleHayes
Think the Yankees had a great offseason, and they were a team that was already built to win.
I think it was extremely smart for them not to get involved with Manny or (I’m assuming, but you never know) Harper. They have a great team and they should focus on some extensions.
JayRyder
I think this is a bad move. Cause now this puts pressure on the guy. The pressure is on. Philly can feel it. But at least they will leave knowing what they need to do for them. . . I don’t suspect a final answer even after a fly out. . . More stringing along. Until the top bidders begin to drop out. . .
Groggydogs
Harper struggles against the shift. He is not a good outfielder. Hate to stay this but I think he is going to wear very thin over the next 5 years therefore some team as many others in the past is going to have to pay excessive amounts for a smaller player than advertised. I do think he has some great years ahead but
braveshomer
AA says the whole season; now McGuirk is back tracking and saying they want to remain flexible. So who knows ha!
bigcheesegrilledontoast
11 years 333. You heard it here first.
Comrade Tipsy McStagger
22 years 666 you heard it here first
charles m.
33 yrs 999 million dollars.
Comrade Tipsy McStagger
As a man with a divinity degree from Harvard, I am going to have to disagree with you, Austin. Austin Kearns most definitely is God — a lesser god, and not a creator god, but a god indeed. He single handily saved the Reds and brought greatness to Cincinnati.
ChiSoxCity
Interesting choice of numbers bigcheese.
maxbaseball09
WE ALL KNOW HE WANTS TO COME TO SAN DIEGO.
Phillies getting desperate lol
VegasSDfan
Funny thing is, that’s true. Harper wants to play In SD
damascusj
yeah, lol. i wonder if he will sign a shoter term contracy with a hogher AAV
bobtillman
I have it on the BEST authority that John Middleton has scheduled a meeting with Harper at a massage parlor in Ft. Lauderdale that was recommended to him by his buddy, Robert Kraft.
HalosHeavenJJ
“Thanks for calling Boras Corp, this is Jon speaking….no, nothing is signed yet, it’s just a meeting…you’re welcome.”
damascusj
Get him too, Padres!!!
nonadhominem
He’s yours, B****otch! Take him! 😉
Comrade Tipsy McStagger
Rather than stupid money on Harper, the pads should have spent stupid prospects on Kluber or Syndergaard.
Padres2019ha
I’m sure they tried before they had Manny. If they got Harper, they’d for sure circle back and overpay for a TOR arm
Z-A 2
Who else remembers batteries and JD Drew?
“I don’t think he was ever going to settle for the money that was being asked,” Ed Wade recalled recently. “I think it was always going to be a moving target. That’s just my personal opinion.”
Dude is going to get destroyed by the crowd if he accepts or declined. If they have to shell out an extra 20, 30 or 40M bc he doesnt like Philly… If it were me, I wouldn’t be going out on the town unless I won a WS in year 1.
Z-A 2
This goes sideways someone’s going to be letting Rhys know he might want to switch agents or hell likely find himself in a different uniform sooner than later.
VonPurpleHayes
Show me one quote where Harper mentions he doesn’t like Philly. Just one.
Harper is going to get booed everywhere except for city that signs him. He’s going to be the highest paid player in baseball. He’s one of the faces of baseball. He’s used to it.
nonadhominem
He’s also not worth the money he wants, VPH,
Walk away, JM.
VonPurpleHayes
If he wants more than 330, walk away. Phillies can afford 330/10 without harming their future.
nonadhominem
I’d walk away now.
Here’s another take on the reported rumor that Middleton (his jet or his entourage went to Vegas):
They can pull the offer and come home and say to the fans: “well, we tried”.
Z-A 2
Generally their future is inexpensive if they part ways with McCutchen, Hernandez, Arrieta and Robertson in year 3/4.
They can also afford to frontload his contract this year.
Z-A 2
I never said Harper was STUPID. A STUPID player would say something like that publicly. All the rumblings through the ‘grapevines’ are that he doesn’t like philly.
philliesnation.com/2018/11/bryce-harper-reportedly…
nbcsports.com/philadelphia/phillies/manny-machado-…
Now of course his camp is refuting this. B/c he isn’t STUPID. Backlash like I said above will be terrible. Philly fans take things personally.. it will be worse than “he gets booed in every city” treatment.
Cat Mando
Z-A………….All the rumblings and gossip said Ohtani would sign with the Yankees yet they were the first team he eliminated.
VonPurpleHayes
For everyone of those rumblings there were counter rumblings from supposed friends and family that said Harper is not at all opposed to playing in Philly. Including articles on the very sites you link.
Now I am not saying those stories are true either. It is all nonsense and speculation. Some of it probably intentional stirred up to increase bidding.
I don’t believe anything unless it has sources and quotes.
Z-A 2
Perception from a lot of the fan base will be that they had to overpay him b/c he doesn’t want to be in Philly. Perception > Truth. It’s trial by mob until there is a new shiny headline for the mob. I’ve run into people that still Hate JD Drew and Scott Rolen like they Michael Vicked their dog.
DadsInDaniaBeach
Z-A, those links go back to Sherman in NY..There is nothing at all that says Harper doesn’t want to play there..It is people like you that continuously post it..There is zero substance to it….the bottom line is that Harper will sign where he gets the best deal, period..
Comrade Tipsy McStagger
VonHayes — ask and ye shall receive:
“I, Bryce Harper, do not like the city of Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, nor the 6 million residents that reside in the metropolitan area. Sincerely, Bryce Harper.” Source — phone call with Bryce just last night
nonadhominem
I can back Tipsy up on this:
It was a conference call, but we were asked to keep the other parts confidential.
(Tipsy, remember the parts about the South Side of Chicago, how he hates the apathy of Nats fans (it’s a Redskins town), how Boras promised him 12/480 [he’s upset he’s not getting it], and how he really doesn’t like Rhys Hoskins OR Mike Trout because he thinks they’re low key pu****s, and I especially remember the part where he thinks Yankees’ fans are entitled little bi****s who only come to the park in full force when the team is winning. Yeah, that remark was funny.)
chiefivey
people live in vegas?
snake120
Haven’t been reading all the comments,,,,don’t know if this is breaking news or not but he ain’t signing in philly,,,he is west coast dude
VonPurpleHayes
A west coast dude who played in the NL East his entire career.
petfoodfella
He was drafted by them. No choice. This is now up to his choice.
VonPurpleHayes
I agree, but my point was, he clearly played on the East Coast without any issue.
petfoodfella
What other choice did he have though? He had zero control.
DadsInDaniaBeach
Just stop it already…Trout is supposedly an East Coast guy, and I’d feel comfortable if he signed an extension…some of you forget this is how they make a living..After their careers are over, they can live anywhere they want..heck, they can live anywhere they want no matter what city they “work” in.
bradthebluefish
I wouldn’t want to sign Harper if he’s playing this hard to get. Seriously. Not cool.
nonadhominem
The “M” in Middleton stands for moron.
ChiSoxCity
Harper’s just a mediocre corner OF with declining offensive production. The Phils, desperate as they are, will still offer a contract that tops Machado’s. Hence yhe “stupid” money.
nonadhominem
CSC – I fear that you are correct, only it may be “moron” money.
PhilliePhan
You’re a mediocre corner OF
Juggy
Bryce don’t go to Philly . The fans and the City a complete garbage dump
nonadhominem
You have, obviously, never been to Philadelphia.
This means you are posting out of ignorance, or you ARE ignorant.
Which is it?
zimerust
Maybe he has been to Philly. Girl I know is from there and even she hated it.
martiny44
Click bait garbage.
Philliesfan4life
10 for 330 would be the start
10 for 340 would be my max
also both offers with opt outs
petfoodfella
I think it goes 11-12 years.
Stevesabers
Just sign, nobody else wants you
zimerust
So you said he’s not worth it, wait for trout, then immediately say just sign no one wants you lol. Philly fans so desperate.
Stevesabers
Harper isn’t worth this. Wait and sign Trout!
draushaus
Where are the Astros? They wanted him last summer and have the cash…
pullhitter445
Pretty jealous that Phillies owner is that committed to not only spend big money but go fly and meet Harper alone to try and get him to join the organization. Jerry reinsdorf would never actually spend his time actually doing such a thing for either of his teams.
Sportsjeffs
I’m adiehard Phillies fa..I say wait for trout in two years team is fine now…Harper will sign with the Giants..he is afraid of Philly and it’s fans..
cscd1111
Why do you think the Phillies can’t sign both?
DadsInDaniaBeach
He’s afraid of Philly? Really? I worked at Justice in DC and the crime there doesn’t take a back seat to any city.
SFGiantsGallore
Maybe Middleton will offer Harper stakes in the Phils. Kind of like Jon Gruden and the Raiders lol.
mdbaseball05
I was secretly kind of hoping the Mariners would somehow emerge as a mystery team.
I do still feel as though Philly is Harper’s backup plan. I think he’ll take the most money, but I have to think that if Philly, SF, SD, and Washington all came in at the same amount, he’d choose the other three. Mostly because I think he’d rather be on the West coast, but he is familiar with Washington after playing his whole career there.
I still wonder if someone like St Louis could magically emerge too.
httr39
This is all a coverup, he is visiting an Asian massage parlor!
cscd1111
I did this last weekend, so I’ll try again, is this the day, when Bryce Harper signs with someone anyone, stay tuned, as a Phillies fan with or without Bryce I’m looking forward to being a top the division this year.
Go Phillies.
bravesfan
Seems like the Phillies are the only team left truly interested right? Nationals are out, he doesn’t want the white Sox, doesn’t want giants because they won’t offer the money/years he wants, yanks are out…. I mean who else is there? Has to be driving the price down for the Phillies or at least you would think
cscd1111
John Middleton is going to get this guy no matter what the Phillies are going to be the high bidder. Scott Boras knows this he will continue to run this up, no art no deal in these negotiations it seems like the Phillies are being played.
neonrocketship
“Other teams” are involved? LMAO!
Did Boras bring a bridge to sell with that bullcrap? There’s one team involved at the dollars and years that his client has demanded. One. There has only ever been one. Boras has zero leverage unless his client is willing to take a one year deal.
If I’m the Phillies, I offer 10 years / 300 mil / take it or leave it / offer is pulled off the table on March 1.. Then, let’s see how those “demands” fall apart when he’s scrambling to save face after the Phillies move on.
cscd1111
There probably is a higher number on the table, I do like your idea, at some point this needs to end.
DadsInDaniaBeach
Negotiate like that, and you’d sign no body.
nonadhominem
Actually, Arte Moreno reportedly does negotiate like that to keep his deals from being shopped.
Reports were that with Josh Hamilton, he made the 5/125 offer and told Hamilton and his agent the offer was good until they left the room.
“That same competitiveness and tunnel vision drive Moreno’s approach to contract negotiations. He’s happy to spend big on a player he values, but perish the thought of the player shopping an offer.”
espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/8746928/josh-hamilton-comp…
It’s actually what I would do if I were Middleton:
“Bryce, here’s $XX over X years. The offer leaves with me the second I’m back on my jet”
DadsInDaniaBeach
The Phils have a real need for Harper. They need that lefty power bat. He would fit right in with Hoskins, and Realmuto. You can bat those 3 in any order. Throw in McCutchen and Segura and that is a nice lineup. You have Goofy in center and Franco. The pen is nicely stocked. I fully expect Velasquez to end in the pen where I think he’ll be exceptional.
Philliesfan4life
Philly is the only fit imo , I don’t see the Giants offering him a long term contract. My final offer would be 10 years 340 with an opt out, Take it or leave it harper.
chesteraarthur
These stories have gotten to straight TMZ levels, funny to read.
Central Valley
I’m thinking Harper wants a California team. Makes too much sense for him and his family.
Are the Giants even trying anymore?
rodster
Overrated, under-performer; a financial curse to whomever signs him.
Desolate in Toronto
modifish
Props to Middleton for doing a man to man. This stuff is reaching critical mass at this point and both sides know it. Phils want him and Harper wants to get paid. With limited legitimate options, each side is gonna apply whatever leverage they can to reach as favorable an outcome as they can for themselves while not losing the game entirely. Interesting moment in time for both sides.
As for Harpers personal preferences, they play a smaller part in all this, and too much is being made of this aspect. “home” is not really tied to the city they play 81 games in each season. I could sit here and make a case for any of the cities that are being bantered about or make negative statements about the same cities if I chose to, basing these statements on what I THINK Bryce Harper thinks. In the end, location,culture, fan base etc.. is only a tiny part of the decision for a pro athlete. Paycheck and a chance to be successful are 99% of the equation. We like to debate the 1% because that’s personal to us and we can have fun with our own opinions on Philly vs SF vs SD vs wherever. Those are own preferences and we can project them all we want on Harper, but even if correct somehow, it’s still just a tiny factor in the process.
nonadhominem
We can only speculate what Middleton said. It could be anything, including telling Harper face to face that the Phillies are not having any more of this, have gone as high as they’re going, and the decision is Harper’s. Sometimes the message needs to be delivered in person.
Or, maybe Sherman isn’t FOS and the Phillies/Middleton did get credible reports that Harper really doesn’t want to play in Philly? Maybe that’s what the conversation is about, and in Harper’s mind he needs a premium beyond the biggest FA contract ever to sign there. Who knows?
Anyway, I’d love to be a fly on the wall.
Personally, if I’m Middleton, I head home and look to pick up talent at the deadline, as I don’t think Harper will be worth the contract.
modifish
We can only speculate…that’s about it. It’s business to both sides. Game theory applies. People have won Nobel Prizes for solving these equations.
Agreed, to be a fly on the wall…..
Central Valley
Great comment.
What’s your gut tell you on where Harper drops anchor?
modifish
I think Phillies land him. Need is there, fit is great and money is available. It’s a matter of the game playing out.
James1955
Harper is holding out for a record setting contract and the Phillies don’t want bid against themselves. Maybe Harper signs in March.