Phillies news and rumors 11/14: Phillies reportedly among ‘strong candidates’ for Josh Hader

The Phillies are reportedly in the mix for one of this winter’s best free-agent relievers.

Philadelphia and the Texas Rangers are “strong candidates” for left-hander Josh Hader in free agency, according to MLB Network insider Jon Morosi in a television appearance on Hot Stove.

.@jonmorosi mentions the Rangers and Phillies as strong candidates to sign Josh Hader in free agency. #MLBNHotStove pic.twitter.com/V1j32prs7t

— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) November 14, 2023

Hader, 29, is coming off a dominant season with the San Diego Padres as he fortified the back of their bullpen in an otherwise disappointing season. In 61 games, he posted a 1.28 ERA with 33 saves across 56 1/3 innings.

A traditional ninth-inning closer at this veteran stage of his career, Hader could be a significant upgrade for the Phillies over Craig Kimbrel, who struggled in the playoffs. The lefty would be another weapon in a bullpen with real firepower, potentially making Philadelphia’s relief unit one of the best in Major League Baseball in 2024

Hader will likely have a steep asking price, however, and will cost further compensation to sign as the Padres extended him a qualifying offer. For that reason, perhaps the Rangers may be a more likely destination for the pitcher, as the Phillies will need to spend resources on the top of the starting rotation this offseason. MLB Trade Rumors predicted that Hader would get a six-year contract worth $110 million, with all three of the MLBTR writers predicting he’d sign in Texas.

Still, the Phillies’ reported interest in signing Hader and continuing to stack their bullpen makes sense, even if a deal between the two sides may not be all that likely.

Must-read (or watch) Phillies content

• Aaron Nola to Atlanta? Phillies Nation‘s Tim Kelly has the story on the possibility.
• Phillies Nation‘s Destiny Lugardo isn’t buying the Blake Snell to Philly rumors.
• Rhys Hoskins could be a Cubs target, according to The Athletic.

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