The Houston Astros pitching staff already suffered its first blow ahead of the 2024 MLB season, losing standout reliever Kendall Graveman to a season-ending injury. In the wake of the news, Houston is reportedly making an aggressive push to sign one of the best pitchers in MLB free agency.
Graveman, a 2023 trade deadline acquisition, was one of Houston’s best pitchers in the second half of the season. The 33-year-old reliever was poised to function as a top late-inning option for the Astros this upcoming season. Suddenly, he’s done for the year and Houston has been forced to pivot to alternatives.
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While there are several intriguing options currently in the Astros’ system, with each of them expected to have a shot to prove themselves in spring training, Houston needs consistency. That seems to be why the Astros’ front office has been given the green light in free agency.
According to Ken Rosenthal and Chandler Rome of The Athletic, the Astros are in active talks and “making a push” to sign All-Star closer Josh Hader to fortify the back of their bullpen.
Signing Hader wouldn’t be cheap. The top-paid closers in 2024 are all making at least $16 million per season. Considering Edwin Diaz is earning $19.65 million this year, Hader could try and push for a multi-year deal with a $20 million average annual value.
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If Hader lands in Houston, it would have ripple effects on the Astros’ bullpen. Ryan Pressly, a two-time All-Star, would shift back into a set-up role. Over the last three seasons, Pressly has compiled a 2.94 ERA, 0.985 WHIP and 11.1 K/9 with 90 saves in 177.2 innings pitched. Signing Hader would immediately give Houston one of the best bullpen duos in the majors.