Astros Sign Josh Hader to Record-Breaking $95MM Contract, Creating Potentially Dominant Bullpen
The Houston Astros have made a major move to bolster their bullpen, signing left-hander Josh Hader to a record-breaking contract worth $95 million over five years. This deal marks the largest contract ever given to a relief pitcher in terms of present-day value, surpassing Edwin Díaz’s $102 million deal with the Mets. Hader’s contract has no deferrals, ensuring that he will earn $19 million annually through the 2028 season.
The Astros’ pursuit of Hader was first reported by Rome and Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, who revealed that the team was “making a push” to sign the five-time All-Star. It comes as no surprise that the Astros were looking to strengthen their bullpen, as they lost key players such as Héctor Neris, Phil Maton, and Ryne Stanek to free agency. Additionally, Kendall Graveman, who was acquired at the 2023 trade deadline, is expected to miss the entire 2024 season due to shoulder surgery.
Despite earlier statements from GM Dana Brown suggesting that the team was content with their internal options, it is clear that the Astros were determined to make a splash in the free agent market. This signing demonstrates a departure from their usual approach, as they typically avoid players with qualifying offers and have never exceeded the luxury tax threshold. Hader’s salary pushes the team over the luxury tax threshold for the first time, with their CBT payroll currently sitting at $254.6 million.
The Astros will pay a price for signing Hader, as they will lose their second-highest pick in the upcoming draft and $500,000 in international bonus pool money due to Hader rejecting a qualifying offer from the Padres. However, the additional penalties associated with being Competitive Balance Tax payors will not come into effect until next offseason.
The signing of Hader reflects the Astros’ high expectations for their bullpen. The left-hander has established himself as one of the top relievers in the game, boasting a career 2.50 ERA, 2.27 SIERA, and 165 saves in 190 chances. In 2023, Hader recorded a dominant 1.28 ERA and 33 saves in 61 games, solidifying his status as one of the best closers in the league.
Hader will join right-handers Ryan Pressly and Bryan Abreu at the back of the Astros’ bullpen, forming a formidable trio that could be the best in the American League. Last season, the Astros ranked fourth in bullpen ERA in the AL and first from the trade deadline onwards. While they have lost some key contributors this offseason, Hader’s addition will go a long way in replenishing their bullpen strength.
While the Astros may still need to add more depth to their bullpen, the trio of Hader, Pressly, and Abreu has the potential to be a dominant force. Hader alone was worth 1.7 WAR in 2023 and has averaged 1.94 WAR per 60 games throughout his career. His ability to pitch in high-leverage situations will be invaluable to the team.
The details of Hader’s contract were first reported by Jeff Passan of ESPN, Mark Feinsand of MLB.com, and Joel Sherman of The New York Post. The agreement includes an even $19 million salary each year, a full no-trade clause, and a $1 million bonus for winning the Reliever of the Year Award.
In conclusion, the Astros’ signing of Josh Hader to a record-breaking contract demonstrates their commitment to building a dominant bullpen. With Hader joining forces with Pressly and Abreu, the Astros have assembled a formidable trio that could be the best in the game. While there are still areas to address, this signing puts the Astros in a strong position as they prepare for the upcoming season.
