It turns out that the Washington Nationals were too late in their attempts to keep Bryce Harper on a long term deal.
As Bryce Harper got closer and closer to free agency, one had to wonder why the Washington Nationals were not attempting to engage their star outfielder in extension discussions. Yes, Scott Boras does not usually deal with extensions, but if a player wants to stay, he will listen. And, if nothing else, there is no harm in seeing what the other side has to offer. Yet, the Nationals seemingly did not look to attempt to persuade Harper to stay in the nation’s capital.
As it turned out, that was not entirely true. The Nationals did make an extension offer to Harper – on September 26, the date of their final home game of the season.
The Washington #Nats made a mega offer to Bryce Harper on the last day of the season, which was rejected, and negotiations have yet to resume as other teams now in the derby.
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) November 6, 2018
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For what it is worth, the Nationals offer was not some token pittance. As Bob Nightengale continued, the Nationals offered Harper a deal that would have averaged nearly $30 Million a year. However, being that close to free agency, and with a lack of urgency on the Nationals side, Harper understandably declined the offer. While Washington is still interested in Harper, they now have plenty of competition for his services.
It is easy to see why Harper will command a premium in free agency. In what was a roughly average year, he produced a .249/.393/.496 batting line with 34 homers and 13 steals. He did a tremendous job in drawing walks, as he led the league with 130 bases on balls.
At just 26 years old, Harper is still not yet at his prime. While he has only had two seasons that would really be considered superlative, and three relatively down years, the best may be yet to come. Harper, and his representation, know that as well as anyone. The time for an extension had come and gone, with the Nationals being late to the party.
The Washington Nationals may well retain Bryce Harper. However, due to their late offer, they will face quite a bit of competition for his services.