Part 6/9:
Harper, once dominant in his prime, is nearing the latter stages of his career and on the back end of a long, expensive contract. His age and injury history make him a less attractive target for a team like the Yankees, which traditionally prefers younger, more controllable talent. Moreover, the Yankees have historically avoided taking on long-term commitments for aging stars, especially those on the decline or with substantial injury concerns.
While Harper could theoretically provide some offensive punch—particularly with Yankee Stadium’s short porch—the financial and contractual implications make a trade improbable. His current contract extends over 13 years, a risky investment for any team, especially considering his age and recent performance trends.