Josh Hader Rumors: Insider Believes AL West Squad Needs Former Padres Closer

Where will Hader land this offseason?

One of the biggest free agents on the market this winter comes from the San Diego Padres and is closer Josh Hader. He is the best relief pitcher available on the open market and will likely be the highest-paid reliever when all is said and done.

Hader isn’t expected to return to the team next season and will be looking for a multi-year deal in all likelihood. MLB insider Mark Feinsand appeared on the MLB Network show MLB Now and broke down what teams need Hader the most.

“There is a team out there that just won the World Series that could really benefit from Josh Hader. Texas got away with it this year, we know how good they were, they got to the playoffs, they rolled through the playoffs. They blew 20 of 49 save opportunities in the eighth or ninth inning this year. That’s a 59% success rate”

Per Mark Feinsand via

MLB Now

Could the reigning World Series champs pursue Josh Hader in free agency?

"He is FAR and away the best closer on the market this year." - @Feinsand on #MLBNow pic.twitter.com/dVEejtEJYb

— MLB Now (@MLBNow) November 15, 2023

Texas getting Hader would seem unfair, especially since their bullpen was so dominant during the postseason. But in reality, they may need a guy like him if they want to go for a repeat.

Hader was special last season for the Friars, and it’s going to lead to him getting a massive payday. He posted an ERA of 1.28 and a WHIP of 1.10 for the season, and he also added in 33 saves.

The Rangers aren’t the only team that could benefit from a guy like Hader, and there will be no shortage of suitors for his services. Getting a quality closer that can be relied upon when the game is on the line is massive for any team, so Hader will likely have multiple great offers to choose from.

San Diego will have to figure out how to replace his massive production, assuming that he does indeed leave the team. But they typically have a plan up their sleeve, especially if they are just letting him walk out of the organization.