Houston Astros’ ‘Push’ for Josh Hader Could Surpass Dodgers’ Interest in Free-Agent Closer
The offseason market for established closers is limited. As free agents go, there is Josh Hader, and then there’s everyone else.
Hader, 29, has averaged 31 saves per season over the last five years, and is coming off another superlative season in San Diego. The left-hander struck out 85 batters in 56.1 innings in 2023, while allowing only 32 hits in 61 games. He went 33 for 38 in save opportunities.
The Dodgers’ bullpen was the best in baseball after the All-Star break last season. Although they used Evan Phillips as their primary closer, a role in which he excelled, the Dodgers sometimes used Brusdar Graterol and others in the role, depending on on Phillips’ workload. Ten different pitchers had save opportunities over the course of the season.
Adding Hader would solidify the bullpen pecking order for any team. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the Dodgers have been linked to him all offseason. One team in particular might have enough interest in Hader to meet his reportedly large contract demands.
According to Ken Rosenthal and Chandler Rome of the Athletic, the Astros “are making a push for Hader,” potentially taking him out of the Dodgers’ crosshairs — and out of the National League West.
The Astros’ interest is unsurprising. They were reportedly among the teams pushing to acquire Hader at last year’s trade deadline. The Padres’ front office held onto the left-hander in an ultimately futile push to clinch a wild-card berth. Hader is not expected to re-sign with the Padres, who have used the offseason to shed salary.
In addition to providing an established closer, Hader would balance out a Dodger bullpen that currently features two left-handers, Alex Vesia and Caleb Ferguson, in addition to swingman Ryan Yarbrough.
Although they certainly wouldn’t mind seeing Hader leave the National League West, the Dodgers’ front office might have to let go of any remaining hopes that Hader’s asking price will fall into a range that makes them comfortable.
The Dodgers have already committed more than $1.2 billion in free agent contracts this offseason. General manager Brandon Gomes said this week he’s essentially comfortable with the group of position players on the 40-man roster, so it stands to reason the vacant spot on their 40-man roster will go to a pitcher.
Whether that pitcher is acquired in a trade or free agency remains unclear. At the moment at least, the Dodgers don’t appear to be the favorite to sign Hader.
Photo Credit: Ed Szczepanski-USA TODAY Sports
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