rewrite this content and keep HTML tags
The noise around Bryce Harper in Philadelphia these days is quite negative.
It all started with inflammatory comments from Phillies president Dave Dombrowski, who questioned whether Harper could once again return to “elite” form at the club’s end-of-season presser. The former NL MVP has since responded, claiming he was “really hurt” by Dombrowski’s comments and cited his commitment to the team and the city as reasons to keep the faith.
Regardless of what happens between the Phillies and Harper this offseason, though, it’s clear that the relationship has been somewhat fractured. And that’s suboptimal when you consider these two parties are wed for at least the next six years. Standing in the way of a potential Harper deal is a full no-trade clause, but if he were to waive it, here are a few destinations that could make sense.
New York Yankees
This fit dates back to Harper’s free agency following the 2018 season, when the Yankees were one of the teams in the mix to sign the 33-year-old, who ultimately settled on the City of Brotherly Love.
New York is slated to lose outfielders Cody Bellinger and Trent Grisham to free agency, as well as first baseman Paul Goldschmidt, meaning the Yankees theoretically have both of Harper’s positions to fill this winter. The veteran’s left-handed swing is also tailor-made for the Yankee Stadium right-field short porch. This seems like a great fit for both sides if Harper is willing to sign off.
San Francisco Giants
Another one of Harper’s former free-agency suitors, the Giants have had their fair share of struggles recruiting the biggest stars to the Bay Area in recent years. But what if this time, one was available via trade? Oracle Park is far more spacious than Citizens Bank Park, though that wouldn’t affect Harper’s production much, given that he’s a prolific extra-base hitter.
In addition, San Francisco already has some solid talent in third baseman Matt Chapman, designated hitter Rafael Devers, shortstop Willy Adames and ace pitcher Logan Webb, along with a new manager in Tony Vitello. That would make Harper more of a missing piece rather than a franchise savior, which is what he should be. Plus, San Francisco is much closer to his hometown of Las Vegas, Nev.
Seattle Mariners
This is where things get interesting. The Mariners have an opening at first base following their run to Game 7 of the ALCS in 2025.
Seattle could go a few different directions to address that need, but why not take a swing at Harper, who could help transform the Mariners lineup from good to great? T-Mobile Park is a notoriously difficult hitter’s environment, but the two-time NL MVP would have tremendous protection around him in catcher Cal Raleigh and outfielders Randy Arozarena and Julio Rodriguez.
The impending departures of first baseman Josh Naylor and third baseman Eugenio Suarez mean that Seattle must find replacements for both, assuming neither re-signs. Therefore, why not make a splash with that money saved by pursuing Harper?
