The San Diego Padres are reportedly not ruling out signing star free-agent outfielder Bryce Harper despite making a big free-agency splash on Tuesday by reportedly agreeing to a 10-year, $300 million contract with Manny Machado, reports baseball insider Jon Heyman.

As Heyman points out, the Padres' $110 million payroll with Machado on the books is still lower than most other major league teams.

Harper, 26, is expected to receive an enormous free agent contract himself when he finally signs, with his deal possibly exceeding Machado's. Heyman reported on Sunday that Harper has received multiple long-term offers exceeding $30 million annually, with the Philadelphia Phillies tabbed as the favourite to land the outfielder's services.

Harper, who was named National League MVP in 2015 and a six-time All-Star with the Washington Nationals, hit 34 home runs and 100 RBI last season.