With the MLB offseason fast approaching, the Houston Astros we are going to be a very busy team.

After being quickly eliminated from the playoffs by the Detroit Tigersthe Astros know they need to make improvements. They will also have big decisions to make on two key players.

Alex Bregman and Justin Verlander are both set to hit the free agency market. Houston will have to decide if either of these players fit their plans for 2025. If they fit their plans, a reasonable price will need to be agreed upon.

Aside from these two players, the Astros could also engage in possible trade discussions to move closer to Josh Hader.

Hader ended up having a very successful 2024 campaign. However, with so many moving parts for Houston to take care of this offseason, they could consider trading Hader.

For the right price, there’s a legitimate chance they’ll be willing to move it.

If Houston opens up to phone calls regarding Hader, a National League powerhouse team is already connected as a potential suitor.

MLB Insider Bruce Levine 670 The score suggested that the Chicago Cubs might consider trading for Hader if he’s available.

During the 2024 MLB season, Hader ended up appearing in 71 total games. He compiled an 8-8 record to go along with a 3.80 ERA, 0.96 WHIP, 4.2 K/BB ratio, 34 saves and four blown saves.

Those numbers would be a huge improvement for a Cubs team that desperately needs closer help. They have struggled to close out games in 2024, making 26 saves throughout the year.

At 30 years old, Hader could be a long-term option for Chicago. Craig Counsell would undoubtedly love to bring the team’s hard throwers closer.

Moving on from Hader would be a tough decision for the Astros. He provides plenty of firepower at the end of the bullpen, but Houston finds itself in a tough spot and only has a limited amount of money to spend.

Currently, Hader is playing on a five-year, $95 million contract. He has an average salary of $19 million. Being able to break this contract would give the Astros a lot more room to make other moves.

All that being said, this might be something to watch out for. A Hader trade to the Cubs may not be likely, but it’s certainly an option.

Don’t be surprised if Chicago contacts Houston about a potential trade for the star.