Free Agency Upgrade? Texas Rangers Linked to All-Star Closer Josh Hader

While all the attention for the Texas Rangers is focused on the Houston Astros in the American League Championship Series, the business of baseball goes on.

And the offseason rumor mill is already getting cranked up.

The Rangers, up 2-1 in the ALCS, will have their decisions to make once their magical postseason runs ends. A list of arbitration-eligible players will be dealt with. Impending free agents like Jordan Montgomery, who will reportedly be pursued by his former clubs, Martín Pérez and Mitch Garver will be evaluated.

There’s also the job of bringing in talent from elsewhere. Pitching, specifically the bullpen, figures to be a hot topic, and one of the best closers around could pique the Rangers’ interest.

At least according to one national writer.

"Padres closer Josh Hader makes sense for the Rangers." – Jon Heyman, New York Post.

The struggles of Texas relievers are well documented this season, even if it hasn’t been much of an issue in the playoffs. The Rangers blew 33 saves and had a save percentage of just 48%, yet somehow still reached the postseason. (No team in MLB history had previously made the playoffs with a save percentage less than 50%.)

Aroldis Chapman, Jose Leclerc and Will Smith have been used in the closer role at different points, with all struggling at different points.

Hader could change all that.

The All-Star left-hander racked up 33 saves across 61 appearances with an ERA of 1.24 with the San Diego Padres this past season. Hader has 165 career saves and a 2.50 ERA over eight seasons, including the first six with the Milwaukee Brewers.

Texas general manager Chris Young, along with ownership, have shown a willingness to spend in free agency for upgrades, such as Corey Seager, Marcus Semien and Jacob deGrom. And with the Rangers entering into a contending window, Hader would definitely qualify on that front.

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