Best Available MLB Players on 2023 Trade Block: Josh Hader
The 2023 San Diego Padres absolutely stink. General manager A.J. Preller is facing a tough situation, and it appears he’s going into sell mode at the trade deadline. A few names have been thrown around, including closer Josh Hader.
The Numbers
Stats as of 7/19/23: 1.03 ERA, 1.00 WHIP, 22 SV, 52 SO, 35 IP
After a disastrous 2022 season, Hader is back to being of the league’s most dominant closers. He’s given up only four earned runs so far and made his third straight All-star appearance. Hader has been one of the very few bright spots for the Padres, who sit six-and-a-half games back of a wild-card spot. Whether he’s in San Diego or somewhere else after Aug. 1, Hader is making a case for Reliever of the Year Award.
Potential Destinations
Just about every playoff-hopeful team could use extra bullpen help. The motto for the Texas Rangers seems to be all-in on pitching, making Hader a potential fit. They already acquired Aroldis Chapman, and a team can never have too many weapons out of the bullpen. The Yankees are failing at just about everything, and Hader could stabilize that bullpen if they decide to be buyers. The Phillies and Dodgers could also use the help in the back end of their bullpens. Both clubs may have closers, but getting the ball to them has been a struggle for both clubs.
The Verdict
In order to acquire Hader, teams need to remember he’s only a rental. But, that doesn’t mean he’ll be cheap, and Preller will play hard to get. Hader is still one of the best closers this season, and playoff-hungry teams will get desperate the closer the deadline approaches. The Padres have a way of making deals for star players, and I believe they’ll strike one with the Rangers. They haven’t made the playoffs since 2016, and now that they’re back in the race they’ll get overly aggressive. If the Rangers want any hope of holding off the Astros, Hader will help. Time is ticking.
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