Josh Hader trade is immediately killing the Brewers

The Brewers recently traded away closer Josh Hader, and it’s coming back to haunt them.

Milwaukee recently traded Hader to the San Diego Padres, and they’ve been struggling since. The Brewers were walked off twice in three games against the Pittsburgh Pirates and blew a save in the finale on Thursday night.

They were swept in the series, mainly as a result of their bullpen.

Hader was one of Milwaukee’s most reliable relief pitchers, and it’ll take awhile to adjust to life without him.

Brewers adjusting to life without Josh Hader

This season, the 28-year-old pitcher has produced an ERA of 4.11, batting average against of .198 and WHIP of 1.09 over 35 innings. His replacement was supposed to be Devin Williams, who’s been another reliable reliever for the Brewers. Williams has produced an ERA of 1.77, BAA of .162 and WHIP of 1.03 over 40.2 innings.

Milwaukee may have gotten rid of Hader at the wrong time. They gained Taylor Rogers in the trade. Though Rogers would be a reliable replacement for most teams, Williams has the most potential of any player in the Brewers bullpen.

Though there was arguably no right time to trade Hader — one of the best closers in the sport — doing so in the middle of a division chase is bizarre to say the least. The return from San Diego, which was lacking per some pundits, makes Milwaukee’s decision-making all the more confusing.

The Brewers are on the brink of losing their first-place NL Central spot, and they made a risky decision by trading Hader.