Padres Linked to Top Reliever in Free Agency as Potential Josh Hader Replacement
As the offseason begins for the San Diego Padres, they have a ton of decisions to make regarding their roster. The team is expected to lose multiple players in free agency, including closer Josh Hader.
Hader has been one of the best closers in the game over the last few seasons, and he is expected to get a massive contract on the open market. With the Padres looking to shed salary this offseason, Hader remains unlikely to return.
If the team does lose Hader, they would need to find a way to replace the production from him. And it seems that they are being linked to the top reliever on the free-agent market.
MLB insider Jim Bowden of The Atheltic sees San Diego as a solid landing spot for Jodan Hicks this offseason.
"Jordan Hicks was finally healthy this season and back to throwing in the triple digits. The Blue Jays acquired him from the Cardinals at the trade deadline and he pitched well for them, posting a 2.63 ERA over 25 appearances including four saves. Overall, he made 66 appearances and registered 12 saves, putting up a 3.29 ERA with 81 strikeouts in 65 2/3 innings."
While Hicks may cost a little bit, it will be much cheaper than re-signing Hader. Bowden has Hicks getting around a three-year deal that is worth $30 million total.
The Padres would jump at the chance to sign Hicks for that amount, and they should be interested in bringing him in. He has been one of the better late-game guys in the league as well, and he could easily give them a reliable option in the bullpen.
Hicks hasn't been healthy enough over the last couple of years, which is why the contract situation may be lower than he deserves, but the Padres should jump all over it. This could be a good way for them to replace Hader with a good option that doesn't completely break the bank.