MLB rumors: Numbers 5-1
5) Chicago Cubs
The Chicago Cubs are a possible destination for Harper mainly because of his friendship with Kris Bryant. The two grew up together and maintain a friendly rivalry today. Chicago may need first to find a way to make room for Harper financially. Maybe packaging Jason Heyward and a top prospect gets it done.
4) Texas Rangers
I expect the Texas Rangers to get back to glory in 2019 after a bleak 2018 season. One way to do this is to sign Harper. Remember, this is the same franchise that inked Alex Rodriguez to a major contract more than a decade ago. They are not shy about spending. Hungry for a championship, they must do whatever they can to finally win it all. As with the Cubs, Harper’s relationship with Joey Gallo could help.
3) Los Angeles Dodgers
Every big name free agent is a possibility for the Los Angeles Dodgers. They may say they’re hunting for bargains, but until they win a World Series, we should expect them to overspend. Harper is someone we should see the Dodgers target next offseason. As a Las Vegas native, Harper would be closer to home. Playing for the Dodgers also gives him plenty of attention.
2) San Francisco Giants
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The San Francisco Giants recently became a suitor for Harper. The fact that they will shed Andrew McCutchen and Hunter Pence’s salaries open up the great possibility of affording Harper. Never shy about spending, the Giants are a perfect fit for Harper. Imagine him hitting next to Buster Posey. Suddenly, the offense becomes their strength.
1) Philadelphia Phillies
How can a team go from the bottom of the league to a serious contender? They can do it by spending big on a player like Harper. The Philadelphia Phillies have everything needed to add Harper. They’re a big city on the East Coast, have a low payroll, and offer a young core to play around Harper.
Next: Top 10 MLB catchers heading into the 2018 season
The Phillies seem destined to sign at least one big contract next winter. Will these MLB rumors become a reality, with Harper as the chosen one?