Report: Astros, Josh Hader Agree to Record-Setting Contract
Houston reportedly is adding a five-time All-Star to bolster its bullpen.
The Houston Astros have reportedly added one of baseball's most electric relievers.
The Astros agreed to a five-year, $95 million contract with left-handed closer Josh Hader, according to a Friday afternoon report from Jeff Passan of ESPN.
Per Passan, Hader's deal contains no deferrals—making it the largest contract for a reliever in history in terms of present-day value.
Hader, 29, has been selected to five All-Star teams with the Milwaukee Brewers and San Diego Padres. He has saved 165 games over his career with a 2.50 ERA and 648 strikeouts across 388 2/3 innings pitched.
Houston, which reached the ALCS last season before its elimination at the hands of the Texas Rangers, has primarily used reliever Ryan Pressly at closer over the last four seasons. He saved 31 games in 2023, albeit with a 3.58 ERA.
The Astros are scheduled to open the 2024 season on March 28 against the New York Yankees.