MLB Rumors: Phillies Making Huge Free-Agent Splash

A couple of best buddies could become teammates as the Philadelphia Phillies are in contract talks to sign free agent Kris Bryant. Bryant is a close friend of Phillies' MVP Bryce Harper.

According to Jon Heyman of MLB Network, Harper has approached management and let his feelings be known about wanting Bryant protecting him in the lineup. The good news for Harper is the fact the Phillies need what Bryant has to offer as he's a versatile fielder who can play multiple positions. Last season between the Chicago Cubs and San Francisco Giants, Bryant played five different positions.

Harper, along with J.T Realmuto and Rhys Hoskins make up the offense in Philadelphia so Bryant's impact may be most felt in the lineup. He's also a former NL MVP who last season slashed .265/.353.481 with 25 HR, 32 doubles, 73 RBI and 10 stolen bags.

As for the best buds, their relationship goes back to their childhood as the two grew up playing ball in Vegas and basically helped put their baseball program on the map as each were the best player at their age group.

It is entirely possible, by the way, that if the Phillies were to sign Kris Bryant (or any infielder for that matter) they could seriously consider bringing in another big bat alongside them.

They’re ~$50M under the first Luxury Tax threshold — and who’s to say they stop there? https://t.co/hFrPGMtiiJ
— Alex Carr (@AlexCarrMLB) March 11, 2022

It's worked before for Harper as he came forward to management before last season about signing Realmuto to a multi-year deal and sure enough the Phils opened up their wallets and signed the talented catcher to a five-year $115.5-million contract. Let's see if Harper can now get Bryant's name inked on the dotted line.