MLB rumors: Aroldis Chapman, Josh Hader floated as Padres trade targets

The San Diego Padres are looking to upset the Los Angeles Dodgers in the National League West this year. While they already have the best closer in baseball in Mason Miller and a strong bullpen, San Diego could look to add even more relief help at the trade deadline. The Padres are reportedly interested in acquiring relief help according to Dennis Lin of The Athletic.

Lin added that Aroldis Chapman and Josh Hader could potentially be available before the trade deadline. According to Lin, San Diego has “long been interested” in acquiring Chapman.

At 38 years old, Chapman is still one of the best relievers in the game. He currently holds an incredible 0.51 ERA across 18 outings to go along with 12 saves for the Boston Red Sox. Meanwhile, Hader is now pitching for the Houston Astros but he is injured at the moment. Hader was acquired by the Padres from the Milwaukee Brewers in 2022 and pitched for the ball club through 2023 before joining the Astros.

A reunion with Hader could make sense, while acquiring Chapman may also prove to be a possibility. Either pitcher would instantly become one of the best 8th inning relievers in the game while pitching in front of Miller in the bullpen.

The Padres will be an intriguing team to monitor ahead of the 2026 MLB trade deadline. While the Padres’ bullpen is already strong, adding even more help would certainly not be a bad idea as they attempt to compete with the Dodgers in the NL West division.

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