MLB rumors: Numbers 15-11
15) Baltimore Orioles
A left-handed hitting outfielder is a major need for the Baltimore Orioles. Why can’t they travel the Beltway and add Harper? It could certainly happen. The Orioles may lose Adam Jones, Brad Brach, and Zach Britton this winter. Freeing up a few more dollars makes them a reasonable suitor. The roadblock here is I doubt Harper wants to play for a team with a horrendous rotation.
14) Houston Astros
The defending World Series Champions pulled off the Justin Verlander trade last summer and put themselves in an “anything is possible” category — it’s hard to count the Houston Astros out on any free agents. While doubtful, don’t write them off yet.
13) St. Louis Cardinals
The St. Louis Cardinals are yet another team we should always consider when targeting big name free agents. Even now, they are a destination for many of MLB’s remaining free agents. When it comes to Harper, a few things may change before the Cardinals become a top choice.
12) Boston Red Sox
Whatever the Boston Red Sox do to resolve their power issues should be completed before the 2018 season begins. Whether it requires them to sign J.D. Martinez or another big move, the Red Sox aren’t in a position to wait for Harper. Since they already have an outfield with Mookie Betts and Andrew Benintendi, room for Harper is scarce. The fit just isn’t there right now.
11) Washington Nationals
Sadly, the Washington Nationals aren’t even in this top ten. The only team Harper has ever known in his MLB career have only that going for him. With so much money invested elsewhere, it would handicap the Nationals to re-sign Harper. Washington will need to hold out hope that Harper loves D.C. too much to leave.