The Houston Astros have made a significant move to solidify their bullpen by signing star closer Josh Hader to a five-year, $95 million contract. This deal, with no deferrals, marks a new record for relief pitchers in terms of present-day value. Hader’s arrival comes at a crucial time for the Astros, as they look to extend their impressive streak of seven consecutive appearances in the American League Championship Series. The team’s acquisition of Hader is even more vital considering the unfortunate news of Kendall Graveman’s shoulder surgery, which will keep him sidelined for the entire 2024 season. Hader’s addition is expected to push Ryan Pressly into the role of the eighth-inning reliever, further strengthening the Astros’ formidable bullpen.
Throughout his impressive career, Josh Hader has repeatedly proven himself as one of the game’s elite closers. Prior to joining the Houston Astros, Hader earned All-Star honors in each of his five full seasons in the major leagues. His dominance is unquestionable, boasting an MLB-best 153 saves since 2019, far surpassing his closest competitors by 59 strikeouts. Hader’s incredible 437 strikeouts over five years showcase his prowess on the mound, underscoring his position as arguably the best closer in the game today. Accompanied by his remarkable 2.60 ERA and 0.98 WHIP, Hader’s sinker-slider combination has made him virtually unhittable, maintaining a career 15.0 strikeout-per-nine rate — the highest in history among pitchers with at least 50 innings.
A Controversial Departure from the Brewers
Josh Hader’s journey to the Houston Astros began with a midseason trade in the summer of 2022. The Milwaukee Brewers, a team he had anchored in previous years, made the decision to part ways with Hader during another playoff run. This move was met with controversy within the Brewers’ clubhouse, highlighting the tremendous value Hader brought to the team. Despite the debate that ensued, Hader navigated through the trade and was embraced by the San Diego Padres. Leading the Padres to the National League Championship Series, Hader continued his impressive performance, culminating in an outstanding 2023 season where he recorded a 1.28 ERA, 85 strikeouts, and 30 walks in 56⅓ innings, converting 33 of his 38 save opportunities.
The Houston Astros’ decision to sign Josh Hader demonstrates their commitment to maintaining their status as a championship-caliber team. With Hader’s arrival, the Astros’ bullpen gains an unstoppable force capable of shutting down opposing teams. His proven ability to pitch multiple innings late in games highlights his versatility and value as a pitcher. While Hader has been more cautious in recent years about pitching beyond three outs, citing the potential risk of overextension during a long season, his impact as a closer remains undeniable.
A New Era for the Astros
The acquisition of Josh Hader ushers in a new era for the Houston Astros. With his addition to the bullpen, the team is poised to continue their dominance in the American League. The Astros’ streak of seven consecutive appearances in the ALCS is a testament to their consistent excellence, and Hader’s signing further solidifies their pursuit of a World Series title. As the Astros embark on the upcoming season, their revamped bullpen and the addition of Josh Hader set the stage for an exciting chapter in their storied history. Astroworld is ready to witness the electrifying performances that lie ahead with Hader taking the mound.
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