Josh Hader

Josh Hader experienced the bounceback foretold last offseason. He dropped his ERA from 5.22 to 1.28, which was much more in line with his career numbers. He struck out 85 batters in 56 1/3 innings and collected 33 saves. His elite xBA of .157 is in the 100th percentile, and batters have yet to figure out how to get any barrel on the Southpaw's pitches. Hader's downfall will always be his BB% (13.0), but fantasy managers inclined to take a closer early in drafts should feel confident they're getting one of the top two here.

Josh Hader slams door on Mariners in tight victory

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.