Astros' Josh Hader sets record straight on pitching restrictions, closer role

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Astros Josh Hader, Ryan Pressly
Hader goes on the record about pitching restrictions. Composite Getty Image.

After the Houston Astros signed Josh Hader to a 5-year $95 million contract, several questions started surfacing about how he will be used on his new club.

He and Ryan Pressly have said all the right things regarding who will pitch the 9th inning. It seems both players just want to win and appear okay with however manager Joe Espada plans to deploy them.

Hader shed even more light on his usage when he joined MLB Network this week. When asked about his pitching restrictions, Hader said the arbitration system is why he chose to “protect” himself and only pitch one inning per outing.

The arbitration system told me the traditional role of a closer is where the value is [with] relievers… I was told to my face what you’re doing is not worth it. So at the end of the day I had to protect myself, because if I don’t, the team isn’t going to protect me for the long term.”

Hader also went on to say the “playoffs are a different beast,” so workload wasn't something he was concerned about in the postseason, “it's all hands on deck.”

Now that we got that out of the way, be sure to watch the video above as Hader talks in-depth about joining the Houston Astros and the one thing missing from his resume, a World Series title.

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The Astros added an important bat to the outfield. Photo via: Wiki Commons.

The Astros clearly aren't done making moves. After reportedly trading for Carlos Correa, the Astros front office has turned their attention to the outfield.

According to multiple reports, the Astros have traded RHP Ryan Gusto to the Marlins for outfielder Jesus Sanchez.

 

Sanchez has primarily played right field for Miami this season, but he's also made starts in left and center field.

Houston GM Dana Brown has been very open about the team's need for another left-handed bat, and now they have their man.

Sanchez (age 27) is slashing .256/.320/.420 this season with an OPS of .740 and 10 dingers.

He will be a free agent in 2028, so this isn't a rental for Astros GM Dana Brown.

According to reports, the Astros are trading away Gusto, RHP Chase Jaworsky, and OF Esmil Valencia in exchange for Sanchez.

 

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