Josh Hader tops MLB analysts' list for most coveted relief free agents - "He's at the top of the food chain"

This offseason will be a big one for Josh Hader as the former San Diego Padres relief pitcher heads into free agency for the first time in his career. Hader has emerged as one of the best relief pitchers in the league and therefore will warrant a lot of interest.

Josh Hader established himself while with the Milwaukee Brewers, making strong relief appearances and winning the NL Reliever of the Year award in 2018, 2019 and 2021. He was traded by the Brewers to the Padres after a lackluster Summer in 2022 before he picked up his form to end the season on a high.

He carried forward his form into 2023, recording an ERA of 1.28 with 85 strikeouts over 56 Innings and 61 appearances. Hader got 33 saves for the Padres and was one of their brightest spots of the season.

Looking at his value, the 29-year-old chose to go into free agency after earning $14 million with San Diego this year. MLB Analyst Dan Plesac recently spoke about the player's prowess on the MLB Network's MLB Tonight show, tipping Hader as the most important relief asset in free agency.

"He is on an island all by himself. He is by far and away the most demanded free agent relief pitcher in the market this year... Had another solid year in 2023, he's at the top of the food chain. If you want to fix the ninth innings, he is your guy," Plesac said (Timestamp - 2:46).

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Possible destinations for Josh Hader in 2024

Some of the big market teams are without an effective relief pitcher and can look toward Josh Hader as a replacement. World Series winners Texas Rangers, despite their win, suffered greatly with a weak bullpen in the regular season. Relievers like Aroldis Chapman and Will Smith are also headed into free agency, leaving their spots open.

The Philadelphia Phillies, who are expected to keep their big payroll intact, will be looking at Hader to replace the services of closer Craig Kimbrel, who also chose free agency.