Wire Taps: Cubs won’t get Bryce Harper; Brian Dozier loves Washington; Looking at 25-man...

This government shutdown may be approaching the Strasburg shutdown in terms of the headaches Washington residents have endured because of it. (In all seriousness: all the best to any furloughed government employees following along with us — here’s hoping they figure this out quickly.)

Here’s the scoop from South Capitol:

MLB rumors: Will the Dodgers be a finalist for Bryce Harper? (SI.com)
"But given the opportunity to land Harper for just money this winter, the Dodgers have grown oddly reticent. Although they’ve been linked to the former MVP in rumors throughout the hot stove season, there’s been little indication that Los Angeles is willing to get into the bidding."

What would a 25-man roster look like today? (MASN)
Assuming Harper doesn't re-sign, does that leave Michael A. and Howie on the bench? And who will fill the fifth rotation slot?

Dozier and Long a match made in launch angle heaven (NBCSW)
Dozier was one of the first players to realize the benefits of pulling the ball in the air, and no hitting coach is better equipped to help such a player than Kevin Long.

Brian Dozier seeks rebound year with Nationals (MLB.com)
Dozier thinks his bone bruise in his knee has fully healed, which could be the key to finding the hard contact he thrives on.

Brian Dozier had more lucrative offers, but Nationals were ‘the best fit’ (WaPo)
Dozier had heard from former teammates—such as Kurt Suzuki—about the joys of Washington, and was willing to take a slight pay cut for a one-year deal and what Dozier perceives to be a lineup among baseball's best.

Joe Maddon on Bryce Harper rumors: 'Not going to happen' (Yahoo!)
If Bryce Harper is headed to the North Side, Joe Maddon isn't quite in the loop.