I don't think Harbaugh's intent, or Baalke's for that matter, was anything malicious at the outset of free agency. I'm not gullible enough to believe anything Harbaugh says to the media but I do believe he was sincere in wanting to recuperate Alex's career and self-esteem. Until a much much better opportunity came along.
But I do agree the buddy-buddy relationship they had was a bit over-the-top at times, lol.