Report: At least 8 teams checking on Harper, some want short-term deal

The market for Bryce Harper reportedly involves at least one-quarter of the league, though some teams are hoping the superstar free agent will agree to a short-term deal, according to Jon Heyman of Fancred Sports.

While the Philadelphia Phillies, San Diego Padres, Chicago White Sox, and Washington Nationals have all been mentioned as potential landing spots for Harper, the other interested parties remain a mystery.

Jim Bowden of The Athletic reached out to sources with the Atlanta Braves, St. Louis Cardinals, Houston Astros, San Francisco Giants, Los Angeles Angels, New York Yankees, and Toronto Blue Jays, all of whom ruled out pursuing Harper.

The Dodgers were reportedly interested in acquiring Harper earlier this winter but were unwilling to sign the 26-year-old to a long-term deal. Since then, Los Angeles agreed to terms with outfielder A.J. Pollock.

Harper, a former first overall pick and National League MVP, would likely be unwilling to settle for a short-term deal. In early January, the six-time All-Star was reportedly seeking a record-breaking contract, exceeding the 13-year, $325-million contract Giancarlo Stanton signed with the Miami Marlins in 2014.

Harper is coming off one of his worst seasons at the plate, posting an .889 OPS with 34 home runs over 159 games. While his slugging numbers were down, the former Rookie of the Year led Major League Baseball in walks with 130.

A short-term deal would give Harper a chance at free agency without being attached to draft-pick compensation. Before hitting the open market this winter, Harper declined a $17.9-million qualifying offer from the Nationals. A player can be tendered a qualifying offer only once.