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Bryce Harper Nearly Joined Giants Before Phillies Deal

3/3/2026

29 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Bryce Harper, MLB star, revealed in a Pat McAfee interview that he nearly signed with the San Francisco Giants during his 2019 free agency.
The decision came down to the Giants and the Philadelphia Phillies.
Harper was influenced by the retirement of Giants manager Bruce Bochy.
Harper signed a 13-year, $330 million contract with Philadelphia and won the MVP in 2021, leaving the Giants to miss out on him.

History

Historical Context

In 2019, Bryce Harper's decision to sign a 13-year, $330 million contract with the Philadelphia Phillies marked a significant moment in Major League Baseball, reflecting the fierce competition for top talent. This record deal, made during his free agency, shifted power dynamics within the league and influenced franchise financial strategies, as teams sought to enhance their rosters and engage fans more effectively.

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Story summary

Bryce Harper, MLB star, revealed in a Pat McAfee interview that he nearly signed with the San Francisco Giants during his 2019 free agency.
The decision came down to the Giants and the Philadelphia Phillies.
Harper was influenced by the retirement of Giants manager Bruce Bochy.
Harper signed a 13-year, $330 million contract with Philadelphia and won the MVP in 2021, leaving the Giants to miss out on him.

1 / 2