With reports surfacing about Bryce Harper and Manny Machado‘s lukewarm interest in playing for the Phillies, it became clear that they would have to outspend the competition to land either player. It appears the team knows that, and they are willing to break the bank to sign either player.
Bob Nightengale of USA Today reported Thursday that the team will focus on Harper and Machado with the signing of David Robertson complete. He also stated that rival teams believe Philadelphia will make each player the highest contract offer.