Report: Nationals making it known Harper is available

The Washington Nationals' biggest star is reportedly on the trading block.

Washington has let other teams know that outfielder Bryce Harper is available before Tuesday's non-waiver trade deadline, a source told MLB.com's Mark Feinsand.

Meanwhile, a source told The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal that the Nationals are sending out "feelers" on their franchise player, while a rival executive said they would be "shocked" to see a Harper trade, and that Washington is "seeing if someone wants to go crazy."

One team with reported interest in Harper is the Cleveland Indians, who've contacted the Nationals about Harper, a source told MLB Network's Jon Morosi. However, Cleveland has apparently refused to include 23-year-old rookie pitcher Shane Bieber in any offer, Morosi added.

The Nationals - who were a popular preseason pick to win the NL East but entered Monday at 52-53, six games out of a playoff spot - have reportedly been conflicted about whether to buy or sell before the deadline. Additionally, a report surfaced earlier Monday that the team's clubhouse is "a mess."

Harper is one of MLB's biggest and most marketable superstars, but he's also destined for free agency at season's end, so the Nationals may want to seek a big return for his services before then.

The 2015 National League MVP has posted a career-low .220 batting average this season, but is still one of the most dangerous hitters in baseball, as evidenced by his .842 OPS (121 OPS+), 25 homers, and league-leading 84 walks.

Over the course of his seven-year career, the 25-year-old Harper has been a six-time All-Star with a career slash line of .277/.384/.510 to go along with 175 home runs and 483 RBIs.