Astros urged to listen to trade offers for $95 million closer

The Houston Astros are facing a bit of a dilemma at the 2026 MLB trade deadline. On one hand, they want to stay as a contender in a wide-open American League Wild Card and AL West.

But, on the other hand, they're 50-54 and have some clear issues with the team. It would not be a surprise if the Astros wound up buying or selling this summer, as these next few games could dictate a lot of what's at-stake for the Astros.

However, regardless of their actual deadline plans, MLB insider Robert Murray of Fansided.com is urging the Astros to, at the very least, listen to trade offers for $95 million closer Josh Hader this summer.

Astros urged to listen to trade offers for Josh Hader

"But in a very limited relief market, especially with Aroldis Chapman now unlikely to be traded by the Red Sox, Houston should at least listen on Josh Hader," Murray writes.

The Astros don't have to trade Hader away, but they really should leave the phone lines open to field offers for their star closer this summer.

With the Boston Red Sox going on a 15-game win streak, Aroldis Chapman, one of the top trade candidates entering July, is now off the board.

Mason Miller is now the top option, and Luke Weaver could fetch a huge return. But, of the elite closer options who could move, that's it.

MORE: MLB execs believe Padres will trade Mason Miller at trade deadline

In a seller's market, the Astros should listen to what teams would be willing to offer for Hader this summer. They don't have to trade him, but a desperate contender could offer a package that's very hard to refuse.

But the Astros wouldn't know if they have such an option if they don't at least field trade inquiries for their star closer, who has a 1.47 ERA this season, and is under contract on a five-year, $95 million deal through 2028.

Dana Brown can field offers and keep Hader. But, not even listening to offers in a seller's market with a barren pool of good closer options would be a disservice to the franchise.

The Astros should listen to Murray's urging and actually entertain offers for Hader. Even if they don't plan to accept any offer, they should leave the door open for offers just in case an offer is too good to pass up.

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