Josh Hader Tops List of Highest-Paid MLB Relief Pitchers in 2025

Josh Hader has become the highest-paid relief pitcher in Major League Baseball for the 2025 season. The Houston Astros signed the five-time All-Star to a $95 million deal. His annual salary of $19 million puts him ahead of other top closers, including Edwin Diaz of the New York Mets.

Hader’s new contract includes no deferred payments and a full no-trade clause. It also features a $1 million bonus if he wins the Mariano Rivera Award, which goes to the best relief pitcher in the American League.

Hader’s Deal Falls Just Short of All-Time Record

While Hader’s contract is the largest in 2025 for a reliever, it is still short of the record. Edwin Diaz holds the biggest deal for a relief pitcher, with a $102 million contract signed with the Mets in 2022.

Due to deferred payments, Diaz’s 2025 earnings have a present-day value of $18.3 million. This calculation comes from Major League Baseball’s Labor Relations Department, which adjusts for contract structures, including signing bonuses and deferred money.

Top 10 Highest-Paid Relief Pitchers in 2025

The list of the highest-paid relief pitchers, based on the MLB’s present-day value assessment, is as follows:

Josh Hader, Houston Astros – $19,000,000

Hader leads the list. He joined the Astros after becoming a dominant closer for the Milwaukee Brewers and San Diego Padres. His new deal reflects both his performance and his ability to deliver in high-pressure moments.

Edwin Diaz, New York Mets – $18,331,014

Despite an injury in 2023, Diaz remains one of the league’s top relievers. His 2022 season with 32 saves and a 1.31 ERA helped him land the record-breaking contract.

Raisel Iglesias, Atlanta Braves – $16,000,000

Iglesias has been consistent since joining Atlanta. His sharp control and low walk rate have made him a key figure in the Braves’ bullpen.

Ryan Pressly, Chicago Cubs – $14,100,000

Now with the Cubs, Pressly had previously served as a reliable closer for the Astros. His postseason success likely added to his value.

Kirby Yates, Los Angeles Dodgers – $13,000,000

After recovering from injuries, Yates has returned strong. The Dodgers are betting big on his ability to anchor their bullpen.

Tanner Scott, Los Angeles Dodgers – $12,141,009

Scott’s breakout season with Miami in 2023 earned him attention. The Dodgers gave him a solid deal reflecting his strikeout skills and left-handed dominance.

Taylor Rogers, Cincinnati Reds – $12,000,000

Rogers brings experience and a strong fastball-slider combo. The Reds are counting on him to help stabilize late-game pitching.

Rafael Montero, Houston Astros – $11,500,000

Montero has quietly become one of the league’s most dependable middle relievers. He returns to Houston with a well-earned salary boost.

A.J. Minter, New York Mets – $11,000,000

The Mets added Minter to strengthen their bullpen depth. His ability to pitch in high-leverage situations made him a valuable addition.

Aroldis Chapman, Boston Red Sox – $10,750,000

Chapman remains a force on the mound. Despite being in the later years of his career, his fastball still reaches triple digits.

How Are MLB Salaries Calculated?

The figures listed here are based on data from USA TODAY and calculated by the MLB Labor Relations Department. They reflect each team’s real-time cash obligations. This method includes base salaries, deferred payments, and signing bonuses.

This adjusted calculation is used by all 30 teams for budgeting and contract planning. It helps to give a clearer view of how much money players actually earn in a given year.

The Rise of Big Money for Relievers

In past decades, teams saved big contracts for starters and position players. But in recent years, relief pitchers have become more important. Many games are now decided in the final innings, making dominant closers a key asset.

Josh Hader’s contract shows how much teams value late-inning pitching. His no-deferment deal also signals a new level of trust in elite relievers.

What’s Next for Relief Pitcher Contracts?

Experts say more relievers could land big contracts in coming years. Younger players like Devin Williams and Jhoan Duran are already showing star-level potential. If they stay healthy and perform well, their next deals could set new records.

At the same time, teams will have to balance risk and reward. Relief pitchers often face injuries, and performance can vary year to year. Still, with postseason games often hinging on bullpen matchups, teams are more willing than ever to pay top dollar.