Padres Rumors: Team reportedly has checked in on Josh Hader

Is this due diligence or are the Padres a serious threat threat to land Josh Hader?

How much weight the rumor holds true and to what extent remains unknown, but in an attempt to shore up their bullpen issues, the Padres are looking at acquiring one of the game’s best relief pitchers. According to MLB Insider Robert Murray, the team has inquired about Milwaukee Brewers stud pitcher Josh Hader.

The big lefty came under a tremendous amount of scrutiny a couple of seasons ago when a few of his old tweets resurfaced from when he was a teenager. The tweets made racist remarks, which led to Hader making a formal apology in light of the social media posts.

Hader has shown tremendous growth as a human, publicly commenting on the recent Jacob Blake shooting in nearby Kenosha, Wisconsin.

As for the player, there are few better relievers than the 26-year-old. He made 61 appearances a year ago, posting a 2.62 ERA and a ridiculous 16.4 K/9. This year, Hader has yet to yield a run, fanning 13 batters with five walks in 9.1 innings.

The Brewers have expectedly regressed from last season and 2018’s NLCS run, so they might be trying to take advantage of the seller’s market that is the shortened season. One thing is for sure regarding Hader. The asking price is going to be astronomical. He won’t be a free agent until after the 2023 season, but he would provide some much-needed stability in the back of the Padres bullpen.

If traded, Hader would likely slide into Kirby Yates’ role next year as the closer or a setup man for Emilio Pagan. Either way, that’s a dangerous combination. Add in Drew Pomeranz too.

Will the Brewers and Padres make another deal?