Three Teams That Could Go All In on Josh Hader
During 2023, the San Diego Padres had the highest payroll within the majors and yet missed the postseason with an 82-80 record. While it was a disappointing year for the Padres, one of the positives was the pitching from closer Josh Hader. Through 56 innings on the mound, Hader had an unbelievable ERA of 1.28 and had 85 strikeouts. Josh only gave up eight earned runs in 61 appearances. Now that the season is over, Hader has hit the free-agent market with a huge decision to make. Even with the Padres lethal lineup, they still have a tough road ahead of them next season, and with the Los Angeles Dodgers being one of the best teams in the majors, the Arizona Diamondbacks making the 2023 World Series, and the San Francisco Giants looking to finally add a big-name star to the roster, the Padres have their work cut out for them. If he doesn’t sign back with the Padres, here are three teams Josh Hader could play for in 2024.
Texas Rangers
The Texas Rangers just won their first World Series championship this past season, and yet they have a lot of problems to address in the offseason. Their biggest issue throughout the regular and postseason was the pitching in the bullpen. Texas’ bullpen stepped up late during the postseason, but at most times they were too inconsistent. Their answer could be the best closer in all of baseball of recent years. With relief pitchers Aroldis Chapman, Will Smith, and Chris Stratton all free agents, the Rangers will be on the lookout to stockpile their bullpen with as much talent as they possibly can. Hader could turn the Rangers’ biggest weakness into a huge strength if they sign the five-time all-star. Assuming Josh Hader signs with Texas, this championship ball club would have to feel good about their chances of repeating in 2024.
Philadelphia Phillies
The Phillies have been known to be aggressive when it comes to the offseason in recent years. Philadelphia is willing to spend the big money to ensure a championship to the city. Last December, the Phillies gave shortstop Trea Turner an eleven-year contract worth up to 300 million dollars. Despite coming so close to winning it all, the team lost the World Series in 2022 to the Houston Astros and lost in the 2023 National League Championship Series to the Arizona Diamondbacks. They may need one more big piece to bring them a step closer to a championship. Josh Hader could be that guy. Especially because Phillies closer Craig Kimbrel is a free agent. Philadelphia should be right back in postseason contention in 2024, but if Josh Hader signs, look out for what the Phillies can do.
Atlanta Braves
Atlanta dominated the 2023 regular season, posting a record of 104-58. Atlanta’s success would only last for so long. During the NLDS, division rival Philadelphia Phillies eliminated them in four games. Despite announcing the team’s payroll would increase this season, general manager Alex Anthopoulos still never confirmed how much the payroll would increase. Like Texas and Philadelphia, Atlanta’s bullpen is not as strong as it could be. The Braves are favorites to win in 2024; adding Hader would increase their likelihood of surviving a grueling October. Josh has yet to never win a ring, even in his illustrious seven-year career. Being an Atlanta Brave could be his best bet.
