Josh Hader

Josh Hader worked this offseason to simplify his pre-windup movements in an effort to prevent tipping pitches, per Brian McTaggart of MLB.com. The left-hander also continues to work on incorporating his changeup more effectively, though he has attempted this adjustment in the past without fully committing to it.

Fantasy Impact

Hader remains one of the top closers in fantasy baseball after recording 34 saves with a 3.80 ERA, 0.96 WHIP, and 105 strikeouts over 71 innings in 2024. If he successfully refines his mechanics and adds a viable third pitch, he could further solidify himself as an elite late-inning option. Regardless, his strikeout upside and role in Houston’s bullpen make him a top-tier fantasy closer heading into 2025.

Josh Hader delivered a pristine performance, securing a save as the Astros edged out the Mariners 4-3.

Fantasy Impact

He struck out three batters across 1 1/3 innings without allowing a hit, walk, or run. This outing is a textbook example of why Hader remains a top-tier fantasy closer, despite a slightly elevated 3.60 ERA this season. His ability to rack up strikeouts is undiminished, as evidenced by his impressive 13.4 K/9 rate, and his WHIP remains elite at 0.93. Fantasy managers should continue to deploy Hader with confidence, especially in tight matchups, as his knack for shutting down opponents in crucial moments can be a game-changer in fantasy leagues.

Josh Hader delivered a flawless performance, tossing 16 pitches over a clean inning with two strikeouts to notch a save as the Astros edged out the Angels 9-7 on Friday.

Fantasy Impact

This outing was a textbook display of Hader's capabilities, reinforcing his role as a reliable closer for Houston. With a season ERA now sitting at 3.16 and a WHIP of 0.88, his dominance is evident, especially with his impressive 13.3 K/9 rate. Fantasy managers should continue to value Hader highly, as his ability to rack up strikeouts and saves, coupled with a low BABIP of .206, makes him a top-tier option in all formats. His performance in high-pressure situations, like today's, only bolsters his standing as one of the elite closers in the game.

Josh Hader delivered a flawless performance, striking out one in a clean inning to notch the save as the Astros edged out the Angels 3-1.

Fantasy Impact

This outing was a textbook example of efficiency, requiring only seven pitches to secure his 32nd save of the season. Hader's performance continues to bolster his role as a top-tier closer, especially given his impressive 13.2 K/9 and 3.21 ERA for the year. His ability to suppress hits and walks, evidenced by a stellar 0.89 WHIP, makes him an elite fantasy option. Owners should feel confident in Hader's ability to contribute significantly in the saves category as the season progresses.

Josh Hader delivered a solid performance, striking out two and allowing no hits or walks over 1.1 innings, but unfortunately recorded a blown save as the Astros edged the Padres 4-3.

Fantasy Impact

Despite the hiccup in securing the game, Hader's season has been marked by a strong 3.26 ERA and a 0.90 WHIP, with an impressive 13.3 K/9 rate. His ability to limit base runners and consistently strike out opponents keeps him as a top fantasy option among closers, though the occasional blown save, now totaling four on the season, does temper expectations slightly. Fantasy managers should continue to deploy him with confidence, albeit with a cautious eye on games where the pressure mounts.