Jan. 3
The offseason buzz surrounding top free-agent closer Josh Hader continues to grow, with the Los Angeles Dodgers and Texas Rangers emerging as potential landing spots for the left-handed fireballer.
According to insider Jon Paul Morosi of MLB Network, the Dodgers remain interested in Hader's services as they seek to bolster an already successful offseason. Their recent signings of Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and the trade for Tyler Glasnow have already made waves in the baseball world. It begs the question: can they cap it off by securing the best closer on the market?
Hader, who is reportedly seeking a deal in the range of Edwin Díaz's record-setting five-year, $102 million contract with the New York Mets, stands as the most coveted reliever available. The Dodgers, known for their financial prowess, could meet his demands and solidify their bullpen with a dominant closer.
Meanwhile, the reigning World Series champions, the Texas Rangers, have quietly navigated the offseason waters. However, their need for an elite closer is evident as they aim to defend their title. During the 2023 playoffs, the Rangers' bullpen barely held together, and the regular season saw more blown saves than successful conversions. The departures of Will Smith and Aroldis Chapman in free agency have created a void that Hader could seamlessly fill.
Morosi indicates that while the Rangers might not be ready to make a financial splash just yet, they could enter the sweepstakes if Hader remains on the market until late January or early February. A late signing could give Texas the opportunity to swoop in and secure the services of a bonafide closer.
Dec. 28
The reason for Hader's delay in securing a contract might be attributed to his desire to surpass Edwin Díaz's record-setting five-year, $102 million deal with the Mets, according to a report by Jim Bowden of The Athletic.
Bowden, speaking on CBS Sports HQ, revealed that no team has reached the "nine-figure" ballpark to this point. While the Rangers, Dodgers, and New York Yankees are reportedly in the mix for Hader, it seems these teams may be leaning towards acquiring a starting pitcher instead.
As Hader patiently waits for an unprecedented contract, the landscape of potential suitors continues to evolve. Only time will tell which team will be able to meet his demands and secure the services of one of the most dominant relievers in baseball.