Houston Hot on Josh Hader: Rival Astros Pursuing Texas Rangers Free-Agent Target

The Houston Astros are reportedly interest in free-agent closer Josh Hader, who's been on the Texas Rangers' radar throughout the offseason.

It appears another suitor – and Texas Rangers’ rival – is in the mix for free agent Josh Hader.

The Rangers and New York Yankees are the clubs most often mentioned when it comes to signing the former San Diego Padres All-Star closer. Well, throw the Houston Astros in that mix.

The Astros are hot on Hader, according to MLB Network insider Jon Heyman. Houston wanted to trade for the left-hander last season before the deadline, per The Athletics.

Hader was previously in Houston’s minor league system before being traded to the Milwaukee Brewers in 2015.

The biggest holdup for any club adding Hader appears to be financial. Hader is looking to break the bank by signing the largest contract for a closer in MLB history. His representatives are believed to be asking for a deal eclipsing the five years and $102 million that Edwin Díaz received from the New York Mets last offseason.

While solidifying the back end of the bullpen is a focus for the Rangers, being financially responsible is also at play. Much uncertainty remains regarding the club’s broadcast deal and how that can impact the budget in the years to come.

There’s also Jordan Montgomery, who remains unsigned but was a huge part of the World Series run. The Rangers are reportedly prioritizing adding starting pitching over relief help, but aren’t adverse to signing both Montgomery and Hader.

The Astros could use some bullpen help in the wake of the likely season-ending surgery for Kendall Graves. Hader would fit in perfectly in Houston – or anywhere else.

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