Harper’s Future Destinations?
It's almost written in stone that Nationals All-Star and 2015 NL MVP Bryce Harper will either remain in Washington or join the New York Yankees once he becomes a free agent after the 2018 season. But is there any chance he ends up with someone else? That's highly unlikely, but lets view some of his options.
The Texas Rangers seem to be that third option for Bryce Harper, but why? Well it's rather easy. Not only will he receive the majority of the money in his contract in the state of Texas which takes out a considerably less amount out of taxes, but Texas also features a short porch in their stadium (much like Yankee Stadium). Park's like these are easily intriguing to a guy like Harper who will most likely have a heavy incentive filled contract, so why not hit in a park where he is more likely to produce those numbers he needs.
Another team in the mix, which they always seem to be a sleeper when it comes to free agents is the St. Louis Cardinals. No Jason Heyward or Upton this offseason could give the Cardinals organization a little more incentive to go after Harper when he is a free agent. A team that clearly needs a big bat, especially a lefty one, the Cardinals signing Harper, along with some of their great organizational depth would be able to produce a title contender nearly immediately.
The last team that could possibly be a sleeper to land Bryce Harper is the Toronto Blue Jays. Why the Blue Jays? Come the end of the 2018 season, only Troy Tulowitzki and Russell Martin will be under contract (possibly Jose Bautista, Kevin Pillar, and Josh Donaldson as well), the Jays will be looking to reload with a bit of cap space themselves. Is it likely Harper will want to go to Toronto? No. Yet the Blue Jays still have an obligation to inquire on the young stud.