Josh Hader is heading to Texas. It just won’t be for the Rangers. The Houston Astros and the All-Star closer agreed to a five-year, $95 million contract Friday afternoon. As of this publication, the club had not confirmed the contract.
Hader, one of baseball’s best relievers, will get $19 million per year as the long-term solution in the pen, ahead of current closer Ryan Pressly and setup man Bryan Abreu. According to The Athletic, Hader’s deal includes a no-trade provision and no deferred money. It also has no opt-outs or club choice.
The left-hander, who was a member of the Astros’ system from 2013 to 2015, has developed into one of the league’s most dependable closers. He earned five All-Star appearances with the Milwaukee Brewers and San Diego Padres before becoming a free agent this winter.
Hader’s career ERA and WHIP have improved since his arrival in the league in 2017. His sinker-slider combo has elevated him to one of the best arms in velocity and framing among those emerging from the bullpen. Hader has 437 strikeouts since 2019, more than any other bullpen pitcher in that time period.
