Bryce Harper To Cleveland? Trades Being Explored

CLEVELAND, OH — The Washington Nationals have reportedly made superstar outfielder Bryce Harper available. The Cleveland Indians are exploring possible trades to acquire the 25-year-old.

Trade talk between the two teams has yet to gain significant momentum, MLB.com reported. Still, negotiations have been initiated hours before Tuesday's trade deadline.

The mercurial right fielder is in the midst of a mild slump, hitting just .220 at the plate and has an OPS well below his career average. However, there's plenty of pop left in his bat, as Harper has clubbed 25 home runs so far this season.

To acquire Harper, a household name for baseball fans, the Tribe would likely have to part with pitching — lots and lots of pitching. The Nationals are slated to lose Gio Gonzalez and Jeremy Hellickson to free agency and the team wants to replenish its rotation.

The Indians have two supreme pitching prospects — Triston McKenzie and Shane Bieber — but the team is unlikely to part with either for a one-year rental of Harper, MLB.com said.

If other teams don't move on Harper, and the market for his services deflate, is it possible the Nationals adjust their asking price? It's within the realm of possibilities. Tuesday could be a very intriguing day for both MLB and the Indians.

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(Photo by Mark Brown/Getty Images)