MLB Insider Says Phillies Eyeing Major Upgrade at Closer
After Craig Kimbrel's multiple meltdowns during the NLCS, the Philadelphia Phillies appear ready to move on from him this offseason. If they want to win a championship in 2024, they need a closer they can trust to lock down the end of games, and unfortunately Kimbrel isn't that guy.
With the veteran hitting free agency, the Phillies can simply let him walk and sign a new closer to replace him. That's a pretty appealing choice, too, when one of the best closers in baseball is on the market this winter.
And wouldn't you know it, Philadelphia already seems to be closing in on him.
According to MLB Network's Jon Morosi, the Phillies and Texas Rangers are "strong candidates" to sign Josh Hader, who is widely regarded as the top closer in this year's free-agent class.
A five-time All-Star, Hader was lights-out for the San Diego Padres in 2023, posting a microscopic 1.28 ERA along with 33 saves and a 13.6 K/9. By comparison, Kimbrel finished with 23 saves, a 3.26 ERA and a 12.3 K/9.
At 29, Hader is also six years younger than Kimbrel, making him a better investment going forward.
The Rangers already reunited with playoff closer Jose Leclerc by picking up his team option, so they may be less inclined to spend heavily on Hader.
Philadelphia, on the other hand, has an obvious need at closer now with Kimbrel expected to sign elsewhere.
Dave Dombrowski tends to go big-game hunting in free agency and has a history of signing star closers, so don't be surprised if he's the one who reels in Hader.
