Cubs Rumors: Bryce Harper’s take on the Phillies potientally trading for Kris Bryant

Chicago Cubs: Bryce Harper gives his take on the Phillies trading for Kris Bryant

Just like Bryant, Harper spoke to the media once he arrived at spring training on Saturday. The Philadelphia superstar, known for his 13-year $330 million contract, also discussed a multitude of topics. However, he put in a valiant effort to stop the spread of the trade rumors that would send Bryant to Philadelphia. Harper told the collective media as well as The Athletic’s Megan Montemurro: 

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"“I mean, you have to have certain guys on your team that make less money to also have guys that make more money, as well. Kris, of course, you want an All-Star caliber player, but we have [Alec] Bohm. We have a big-time third baseman and we were able to get him in the draft. Of course, any time you’re able to add an All-Star caliber player, you’re going to want to add an All-Star player. But you have to be able to know you developed a player in the minor leagues that can also help you at third base, and Bohm could be that guy for us."

He added this:

"“[…] But I can’t give up Spencer Howard and Bohm, and possibly give up our whole future, for a year and a half of KB if we don’t sign him to an extension. And I know there’s a guy in there that we need to sign to an extension. I think having a guy like J.T. [Realmuto] for the next six years would help us.”"

In short, Bryce Harper is thinking far into the future, which makes sense because he is entering the second year of his 13-year contract. It seems that both sluggers discussing trade rumors have put them to rest for the most part, but only time will tell. Though a trade of this brevity is unlikely this far into the off-season, this one has been unpredictable, and anything is possible before the regular season starts.