Josh Hader Free Agency News: Astros sign All-Star closer on record breaking $95,000,000 deal

After news dropped on Thursday that the Houston Astros were ramping up their pursuit of All-Star Josh Hader, the two parties have come to an agreement.

According to MLB insider Jeff Passan, the Astros and the free-agent closer reached a five-year, $95 million contract.

"BREAKING: Star closer Josh Hader and the Houston Astros are in agreement on a five-year, $95 million contract, a source tells ESPN. The deal contains no deferrals. It is the largest present-day value contract for a relief pitcher in baseball history." - @JeffPassan

Passan also reported that there's no deferred money in Josh Hader's new contract, which makes it the richest 'present day' deal signed by a relief pitcher in MLB history. He used the term 'present day' because Edwin Diaz signed a $102.5 million deal with the New York Mets, but deferrals lower its present value to roughly $93.1 million.

Hader continued his reign as arguably the best closer in baseball, earning the fifth All-Star selection of his career. Over 56.1 innings, he posted a dazzling 1.28 ERA with 33 saves and 85 strikeouts.

Coming off yet another elite campaign with the San Diego Padres, Hader entered the open market as one of the most sought-after free agents of the class. Now that he has joined the Houston Astros, the veteran closer forms one of the best bullpen duos with All-Star Ryan Pressly.

"Opposing teams thinking about facing Bryan Abreu, Ryan Pressly and Josh Hader in late innings" - @StoolBaseball

Ryan Pressly has been one of the best closers in the MLB over the last few seasons. Since 2020, the 35-year-old has appeared in 198.1 innings, posting a 2.99 ERA with 102 saves and 249 strikeouts.

As if combining Hader and Pressly wasn't enough, the Houston Astros have many other high-quality bullpen arms, including Bryan Abreu and Rafael Montero, that rank among the top in the MLB.

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With Josh Hader off the market, former Astro Hector Neris may be the next relief pitcher to sign

Hader was the most sought-after relief pitcher on the open market, but the fact that he was looking to sign a lucrative deal, teams have been looking for alternatives this offseason. One of them is former Houston Astros bullpen arm, Hector Neris.

Reportedly, Neris is seeking a three-year contract in the range of $50 million. After the report came out, fans reckon no team could be willing to pay that price tag, but the New York Yankees have been the frontrunners all offseason.

"I need Hector Neris and his energy on the Yankees ASAP" - @MikeSalvatore10

Neris may not reach the $50 million salary he's seeking, but Josh Hader signing a $95 million contract could help the relief pitcher market.