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The Milwaukee Brewers are trading closer Josh Hader to the San Diego Padres, per ESPN's Jeff Passan. Ken Rosenthal had reported that the deal was close to being done. Hader is eligible for arbitration next season and can become a free agent in 2024. Here's a look at the details of the trade.
The return on Josh Hader to Milwaukee is significant: left-handed closer Taylor Rogers, lefty pitching prospect Robert Gasser, outfielder Esteury Ruiz and right-hander Dinelson Lamet, sources tell ESPN. Hader will be a free agent after the 2023 season.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) August 1, 2022
The Padres have been very active in reports heading into the deadline, also linked to Washington Nationals OF Juan Soto. Adding Hader gives the Padres a legit closer who should be more reliable than Taylor Rogers, who was dealt to the Brewers in the trade.
Hader leads the MLB in saves with 29 on the season for Milwaukee. He's also a four-time All-Star with a career ERA of 2.48 in 269 appearances. Hader has 34 saves for the Brewers last season and 125 saves in his career. He is a massive upgrade over the bullpen arms the Padres currently have on the roster.
As for Milwaukee, the Brewers were able to send Hader to the Pads because of Devin Williams, who should slide into the role with ease. He has 25 holds and six saves this season with a 1.59 ERA and 15 K/9. Rogers should also get a chance to save games but Williams is the better option. Brad Boxberger is also in the mix to close, per Rosenthal.