Chicago White Sox

That’s what I’ve assuming, but great to have that finally confirmed.

I know for a fact the Cubs aren’t a serious player for Harper, so it would be weird for him to wait on them.

I truly don’t think both is off the table if the Dodgers are going to be timid with their offer.

My view on this the entire time has been if a team offers the most money (at least 5% to 10% more than the next best bid), they probably have a 90% chance or better of landing the player. And for me, the biggest question was whether the Sox were prepared to offer a record breaking contract. Based on everything we’ve heard and our unfounded optimism at the Winter Meetings, it really seems like we’re not fucking around this time and that makes me beleive we really have a great shot here.

What you hearing Jimmy?!

Not that I believe the source, but great news if true. And let’s be honest, money typically wins out in these situations.

Why? What you hearing?

Based on what he’s posted, his source must be on Machado’s side.

There’s zero downside with them getting 10 years (assuming opt-ours) so they’ll definitely ask for 10 years.

Their offseason moves have been strictly about maintaining a competitive roster for 2019 and have nothing to do with freeing up enough cash for Lindor. You’re really reaching if you think they can now suddenly afford a $300M extension for him.

We all know Machado would love to play for the Yankees, but let’s say we offer him 10/$350M while New York only offers him 8/$240M. How could he look his wife in the eyes and tell her he’s passing on all that guaranteed money and the chance to play with her brother for a period of time? To me, if the Yankees decide they’re unwilling to overpay for his services, then we can actually win this thing.

Good stuff Jack. You’re a really sharp guy and that will stand out if you can control the pessimism and be a bit more rational.

Bears clinch the North and Parkman is strangely silent. Hmmm...

Formal offers haven’t been submitted, but you can be certain rough ranges have been exchanged. Machado’s agent isn’t going to due a site visit for a club that doesn’t intend a significant offer.

Sorry Buster, but we don’t believe you bud.

I agree, although I bet Machado’s agent purposely left a day open in the middle to create the illusion of a mystery team being involved.

Mystery team on Tuesday?

Yeah, seems like SS would be temporary, at least in 2019. Didi is a free agent after next year so theoretically they could open it up for him.

You’re really over-thinking this.

Marlins are totally going to get too greedy and botch this.

This tweet is a few days old, but still summarizes where I think things stand for Harper, especially the part about the Dodgers.

It all depends on money, but Heyman sure makes it sound like we’re in a stronger position than Philly.

It’s going to be a fascinating battle!

Right now, we’re probably looking at Jimenez in LF, Engel in CF, & Palka in RF with Leury as a backup in some capacity (4th OF or UT) and Nicky down in AAA. I wouldn’t be surprised if they add some cheap vet to the mix either.