Brewers Trade for Josh Hader
The Milwaukee Brewers have traded relief pitcher Josh Hader to the San Diego Padres for a package of prospects, including outfielder Esteury Ruiz and left-handed pitcher Robert Gasser.
Hader, a four-time All-Star and two-time Reliever of the Year, has been one of the most dominant relievers in baseball over the past several seasons. In 2022, he posted a 1.23 ERA and 0.82 WHIP with 14.4 strikeouts per nine innings.
The Padres have been in need of a closer since trading away Taylor Rogers at the deadline, and Hader fills that role perfectly. He is under contract through the 2023 season, and the Padres hold a club option for 2024.
Laureano’s Contract Selected
The Oakland Athletics have selected the contract of outfielder Ramon Laureano from Triple-A Las Vegas.
Laureano, who turns 28 this year, was a breakout star for the Athletics in 2021, when he hit .246/.321/.450 with 15 home runs and 37 stolen bases. He missed most of the 2022 season due to a PED suspension, but he returned to the Athletics late in the season and hit .262/.326/.467 in 23 games.
The Athletics have been trying to trade Laureano for the past year, but they have been unable to find a suitable offer. By selecting his contract, the Athletics are indicating that they believe Laureano can be a valuable part of their team moving forward.
Harris to IL
The Baltimore Orioles have placed outfielder Cedric Mullins on the 10-day injured list with a left foot injury.
Mullins, who turns 28 this year, is one of the Orioles’ most important players. He is a Gold Glove-caliber center fielder and a dangerous hitter at the top of the lineup. In 2022, he hit .253/.325/.461 with 22 home runs and 30 stolen bases.
The Orioles are hoping that Mullins’ injury is not serious, but it is a concern for a team that is trying to compete for a playoff spot.
Kind regards Z. McDowell.
