Astros emerging as possible Josh Hader landing spot in free agency
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The Astros are emerging as a potential spot for star closer Josh Hader, a Houston prospect before an ill-conceived trade to Milwaukee.
One other thing heard from teams about Hader, arguably the game’s best closer (1.28 ERA in 2023), is this: his medical is pristine.
The division-rival Rangers have checked in on Hader, but the Astros seem more likely at the moment.
The Astros also joined the Yankees and Rangers in on their incumbent setup guy Hector Neris, who seeks $22 million for two years. The Astros lost Kendall Graveman, who had shoulder surgery.
The hitting market — Jorge Soler, J.D. Martinez, Justin Turner and Rhys Hoskins — is heating up. The Jays are a front-runner for Soler, with the Diamondbacks and Red Sox also interested.
The Cubs remain on Hoskins.
The Rangers, Giants, Brewers, Mariners and Mets are others with interest in a hitter. The Mets have done a nice job with depth and defense but need lineup protection for star Pete Alonso. Martinez would be ideal.
At the top of the positional market, the Cubs remain logical for Cody Bellinger. The Jays, Mariners and Giants all have been connected.
Mostly the same teams are fits for Matt Chapman.
The Angels like Bellinger, and could make sense. The Angels, who lost their best hitter and pitcher (Shohei Ohtani), like Blake Snell, too. But Angels owner Arte Moreno typically favors everyday players over pitchers.
The Rangers remain a decent bet for Jordan Montgomery assuming their TV issue is resolved.
There’s growing belief the White Sox could hold onto Dylan Cease until the trade deadline. The Orioles have the best prospects but don’t want to part with top infield prospect Jordan Westburg.
With Corbin Burnes and Shane Bieber looking even less likely to be traded, that may aid the Marlins who are listening on anyone besides Eury Perez and Sandy Alcantara. Jesus Luzardo should bring a haul if dealt.
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