The Houston Astros reportedly have their eyes set on bringing a star to their bullpen.
The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal and Chandler Rome reported Thursday, citing sources, that Houston is “making a push” to sign star closer Josh Hader.
Hader, 29, is an unrestricted free agent for the first time in his career. Over seven seasons, Hader has been named to five All-Star teams while logging a 2.50 ERA, 15.0 K/9 and 165 saves for the Milwaukee Brewers and San Diego Padres.
Hader is arguably coming off his most dominant season yet, registering a 1.28 ERA and 33 saves in 61 games for the Padres.
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New York Mets reliever Edwin Diaz currently owns the most lucrative contract among MLB closers at five years and $102 million. Hader reportedly is looking to exceed that deal in free agency.
If Hader joins the Astros, he would headline a bullpen already featuring two-time All-Star Ryan Pressly, who has notched 90 saves over the last three seasons.
The Astros, who hired Joe Espada as their new manager after the legendary Dusty Baker stepped away from managing this offseason, typically prefer to share ninth-inning duties among relievers, a philosophy that might have to change if Hader arrives at Minute Maid Park.
