Crossing the finish line:
While many fans imagine a dream team assembled during the offseason, Harper, Keuchel and Craig Kimbrel won’t be on the active 25. Harper probably will be, Keuchel might be, but all three won’t be.
The #Phillies, according to team executives, have visions of signing Harper,
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) January 15, 2019
Keuchel and Kimbrel.
At $156.4 million, the Phils have $49.6 million, and $206 million is an amount they won’t exceed without a solid shot at the NL pennant. In other words, Harper at $30-35 million and Keuchel at $15-20 million are a doable $45-55 million. And remember, Klentak already has David Robertson under contract.
As for Nola, his arbitration figure was $6.75 million, the Phils’ offer was $4.5 million, and Roster Resource estimated $6.6 million in their $156.4 million tally. Basically, this is a negotiation in progress, and the red pinstripes will probably agree to $5.75 million.
Many locals don’t realize an additional $1 million gives management more room to sign Harper and Keuchel. Usually, negotiations have higher asks by players and lower proposals by clubs. And keep in mind, if Klentak can add Keuchel, it will be due to keeping payroll down with Harper as well.
While some national publications expect Harper to be a February or March signing, Boras knows the Phillies offer will be more lucrative than the White Sox’s. And because the Phils have leverage as a result, what could the super agent decide to do instead of delaying the inevitable? Strike first!
If you have any questions or opinions regarding Philadelphia Phillies players, please open the comments section.