HOUSTON -- The Astros’ bullpen has been among the best in baseball for the first month of the season, and veteran closer Josh Hader is a big reason why. Hader has allowed one earned run, given up five hits, walked two and struck out 15 batters in his first 12 innings, which covers 10 outings.

Hader, in the second year of a five-year, $95 million contract, said he’s more comfortable in his delivery and is able to control his pitches better, which is allowing him to get ahead in counts and make the pitch he wants when he wants. With that, his confidence in his pitches has improved. He’s 6-for-6 in save chances.

https://www.mlb.com/astros/news/josh-hader-dominating-for-astros-2025