Multiple reports revealed that the Houston Astros and Josh Hader agreed to a five-year, $95 million contract. It’s the highest contract given to a relief pitcher. The deal has no deferrals, meaning Hader will get $19 million annually.
Hader is a three-time National League Reliever of the Year, a three-time All-MLB First Team member, and a five-time All-Star. He first earned all three distinctions in 2019 when he had a 2.62 earned run average, 138 strikeouts, and 37 saves in 75.2 innings for the Milwaukee Brewers.
The Houston Astros and Josh Hader are in agreement on a 5-year, $95M deal, via multiple reports pic.twitter.com/nB4fuG4W4d
— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) January 19, 2024
Two years later, he gained all distinctions again after posting a career-best 1.23 ERA in 58.2 innings. Hader struck out 102 batters, tallied 34 saves, and surrendered only 25 hits.
After playing five seasons and change, the Brewers traded him to the San Diego Padres for Dinelson Lamet, Robert Gasser, Taylor Rogers, and Esteury Ruiz. He finished his first season in San Diego with a 7.31 ERA in 19 games.
However, he bounced back during the 2023 MLB season, earning him All-Star and All-MLB First Team honors. Hader finished that season with 33 saves and a 1.28 ERA.
Hader also holds the MLB records for most consecutive hitless appearances (12), the fastest player to accumulate 400 strikeouts (234.2 innings), and most consecutive saves to start the season (18).
With Hader agreeing to a deal with Houston, he will form a solid relief pitching rotation with Bryan Abreu and Ryan Pressly.
The Houston Astros came short of a World Series appearance after losing to the Texas Rangers in the American League Championship Series.
-Lance Fernandez