The Los Angeles Dodgers are looking to win their third consecutive championship and fourth championship this decade in 2026. Accomplishing the feat will not be a simple task given all of the talent in the National League. With that being said, the Dodgers are probably still the favorite. With that being said, adding more talent is never a bad idea. Meanwhile, there is a chance that Houston Astros star closer Josh Hader — who is currently battling an injury — could be a possible trade candidate.
MLB insider Ken Rosenthal recently mentioned names of Astros who could possibly be moved if Houston decides to sell at the trade deadline. Hader was among the players mentioned.
It is worth noting that Hader has a no-trade clause. That is something to consider when it comes to a potential trade. He is also set to make $19 million this year as well as 2027 and 2028. The security of having Hader under contract will surely appeal to potential suitors, but the high salary may deter some ball clubs. Hader is also 32 years old and he has not pitched yet in 2026 due to injury.
However, Hader is one of the best relievers in the sport when healthy. He turned in a 2.05 ERA in 48 outings a season ago.
He will surely catch the Dodgers’ attention if the Astros make him available. Let’s take a look at LA’s perfect trade offer for the Astros’ star closer.
Dodgers’ potential trade offer
Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
Dodgers receive: LHP Josh Hader
Astros receive: OF Mike Sirota, RHP River Ryan, RHP Cam Leiter
This specific trade is intriguing. Since Hader has multiple years of team control remaining, any team that trades for him will need to surrender a quality return. Sirota, 22, is the team’s No. 4 overall prospect. Meanwhile, Ryan and Leiter check in at No. 6 and No. 21 overall in LA’s farm system.
Sirota is probably a couple of years away from the big leagues, but his potential is exciting. The right-handed hitter makes an impact in multiple ways. He can handle duties in center field while also hitting for average and power. Sirota can also steal bases.
The Dodgers probably need to trade Ryan soon. He has featured potential for years but Los Angeles’ pitching depth is going to make it difficult for him to earn a consistent rotation spot. At 27 years old, Ryan would probably benefit from a trade.
Leiter, meanwhile, is only 22 years old. Adding him to the deal would give the Astros one more prospect in the deal for Hader. Leiter will not be MLB-ready for a while, but he looks like a pitcher who could find success at the MLB level down the road.
Hader is a star pitcher. Some Dodgers fans may argue that this trade is too much for him. However, having Hader in the bullpen as the dynasty continues will only increase the team’s chances of winning more championships soon.
Will the trade happen?
If the Astros make Hader available — which is not guaranteed to happen — the Dodgers could at least reach out and see what the asking price is. Many teams would have interest, so the Dodgers will need to be ready to make a big offer for Hader if they decide to pursue a trade.
It remains to be seen if the trade will happen, but it would not be surprising.
The Los Angeles Dodgers are looking to win their third consecutive championship and fourth championship this decade in 2026. Accomplishing the feat will not be a simple task given all of the talent in the National League. With that being said, the Dodgers are probably still the favorite. With that being said, adding more talent is never a bad idea.