Maddon: Harper to Cubs is 'not going to happen'

Chicago Cubs fans hoping the team will swoop down in the final hours to sign free-agent outfielder Bryce Harper probably shouldn't hold their collective breaths.

Speaking at a charity event on Tuesday, manager Joe Maddon was asked what the chances were that the Cubs would land the former National League MVP.

"Not going to happen," Maddon said without skipping a beat, according to Jesse Rogers of ESPN.

The Cubs have been said to be operating on an extra-tight budget the entire offseason, making a big splash in free agency unlikely. Despite this, there's been speculation that they may secretly be in on Harper.

In mid-December, it was reported that the team was actively trying to clear payroll to be able to sign the 26-year-old outfielder. Harper later added fuel to the fire by spending New Year's Eve with close friend, and Cubs third baseman, Kris Bryant.

This could all be a ruse leading to a surprise move to bring the six-time All-Star to the North Side of Chicago, but the Philadelphia Phillies remain the front-runners for now.