Cubs Rumors: Here’s the latest on free agent Bryce Harper

We’re just starting the offseason and already, Bryce Harper is the story. And, despite what many expected, there are no Cubs rumors tying him to Chicago.

It’s that time of year. Where you scour the Internet looking for the latest hint of Cubs rumors and rumblings. And, already this offseason, there has been no shortage of news.

First, the team kicked Chili Davis to the curb after just one season, handing the reins of the offense to former John Mallee mentee Anthony Iapoce. In short, it seems like the Cubs will be looking to focus more on launch angle as they had prior to Davis’ arrival.

Then, the club decided to pick up the $20 million team option on left-hander Cole Hamels‘ contract, simultaneously dealing Drew Smyly to the Rangers, saving $7 million in the process. The move solidified the rotation, giving the Cubs added insurance and stability when it comes to the staff.

Since then, Chicago has been in the news for all kinds of other reasons. First, Theo Epstein said they would not talk to Joe Maddon about a new contract this winter. Then, doubts surfaced about the job security of pitching coach Jim Hickey. While they haven’t made any big moves yet, this team has certainly been in the news more than anticipated.

All this without any clear links to free agent outfielder Bryce Harper, who headlines this year’s offseason class. Here’s the latest on the former Washington Nationals outfielder and National League MVP.

Cubs Rumors: Pouring cold water on the Yankees

Bryce Harper in the Bronx. It makes sense, really. We’re talking about a guy who lives for the bright lights and big moments. There’s nowhere bigger or brighter than the Big Apple.

The problem? New York is loaded in the outfield, already, featuring the likes of Giancarlo Stanton (who carries a $325 million contract of his own), Aaron Judge, Brett Gardner, Clint Frazier, Jacoby Ellsbury and Aaron Hicks. Finding a spot for Harper would necessitate not just one move, but several.

And, according to Buster Olney, it’s not going to happen – for that very reason.

Still, the idea of Bryce Harper and Giancarlo Stanton hitting back-to-back in the lineup? The former taking aim at that short porch in right field? That’s enough to make anyone, even Brian Cashman, think twice about passing on this generational talent.

Knowing full well there isn’t room in the Yankees outfield, Boras made it known Harper could play first base for his next club. Could that be enough to intrigue Cashman and Yankees ownership?

Cubs Rumors: Are the Giants a ‘perfect fit’?

If you ask Scott Boras, the San Francisco Giants and new president of baseball operations Farhan Zaidi are the ‘perfect fit’ for his star client. How shocking.

“I think he likes the absolute feel of the ballpark and the fans,” Boras said of Harper and San Francisco. “It’s a great fan base. You know you’re at a ballgame, and he loves the enthusiasm and their success.”

They’re not alone in being a great fit. MLBTR predicted the back-to-back NL champion Los Angeles Dodgers will be where the superstar lands. One team, though, you haven’t heard about? The Chicago Cubs.

More than a few reports have come out lately that make it seem like Chicago is hard-pressed financially. Well, maybe not hard-pressed, but they don’t seem to have an extra half-billion dollars laying around they want to throw at a guy like Harper.

The offseason is young and the Cubs seem more focused on their own house than bringing in new family members right now, and rightfully so. No one knows where Bryce Harper will wind up. What we do know, however, is this will be a free agent pursuit unlike anything we’ve seen in years.