Padres' Potential Closer Taking Different Approach to Job Than Josh Hader
Among the notable losses for the San Diego Padres this offseason, Josh Hader left a gaping vacancy for ninth-inning save situations when he signed a five-year contract with the Houston Astros.
Nearly a month into spring training, it isn't entirely clear who will be closing for the Friars in 2024.
Right-handed relief pitcher Robert Suarez is one among many who could step into that role. While he's only one recorded save in two major league seasons, Suarez has shown serious promise in high-leverage situations.
Suarez, 33, recently spoke to reporters, including A.J. Cassavell of MLB.com, about his role for the upcoming season. He has a noticeably different approach than his predecessor when it comes to his usage,
"That’s up to the team to determine what situations they want to put me in. Whether that be four outs, the eighth inning, the ninth inning, my job is to be ready to go. For whatever the manager decides, that’s on me to be ready."
Hader came under fire last year when he admitted to only wanting to pitch in save situations and for no more than three outs. These comments might have followed him into the offseason, as he signed relatively late and for less overall money than he wanted.
Suarez appears more open-minded, wanting to pitch in whatever scenario helps the team most. This kind of attitude might help the club win more games this year despite losing premier talent.
After bursting onto the scene in 2022, Suarez struggled in 2023. He had a 4.23 ERA in 26 appearances and his strikeout rate noticeably dropped to only 7.8 per nine innings.
An elbow injury that delayed his start to 2023 could have contributed to a disappointing season. However, he's off to a rocky start in spring training. Suarez has surrendered four earned runs in 3.1 innings, a 10.80 ERA.
It's a small sample size, but it suggests the closer competition could persist through the end of spring training and maybe longer. If they don't begin the season with a designated closer, at least the Padres will have versatility when it comes to save chances.
