Bleacher Report · Feb 24, 2019
Bryce Harper Rumors: Phillies Owner Leaves Vegas, Still 'Optimistic' on Contract
Philadelphia Phillies owner John Middleton's attempts to reel in Bryce Harper by flying to Las Vegas for a face-to-face meeting came to an end without a deal done.
Per Matt Breen of the Philadelphia Inquirer, Middleton flew back to his home in Florida on Saturday after meeting with Harper and agent Scott Boras.
Even though no contract was finalized, Breen noted the Phillies "feel optimistic" about signing Harper and one reason Middleton stayed longer than intended is because both sides were still in negotiations.
USA Today's Bob Nightengale previously reported there is "optimism" that Harper and the Phillies will finalize a 10-year deal by Monday afternoon.