Report: Padres, Brewers talked Hader trade over last few seasons

The San Diego Padres have been eyeing star closer Josh Hader for a long time.

San Diego and the Milwaukee Brewers discussed a trade involving Hader at different points over the last few years, sources told Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic.

However, the clubs reportedly haven't been able to find common ground. The Brewers desire affordable and controllable major-league assets, but the Padres want to keep players who meet that description, according to Rosenthal.

Infielder Jake Cronenworth and left-hander Tim Hill are two Padres who would fit the Brewers' needs, notes Rosenthal.

Brewers general manager Matt Arnold said in late November that Hader is a "big part of our future," seemingly pouring water on prolonged rumors involving the 26-year-old reliever who owns a career 2.54 ERA, 62 saves, and a 15.3 K/9.

Meanwhile, the Padres have yet to announce their closer for 2021. Drew Pomeranz, Emilio Pagan, and Mark Melancon are expected to compete for the job.