If Kendall Graveman hadn't gotten hurt, it's possible the Houston Astros wouldn't have signed Josh Hader.
Graveman was a key part of the Astros' bullpen down the stretch last year. After coming over from the Chicago White Sox before the Trade Deadline, he went 2-2 with a 2.42 ERA and 24 strikeouts in 23 appearances, helping solidify Houston's relief corps and contributing to another AL West title.
Unfortunately for Graveman, his shoulder gave out on the eve of the playoffs. He missed the entire postseason with right shoulder discomfort, leaving the Astros shorthanded as they fell to the Texas Rangers in the ALCS.
Houston hoped his shoulder would improve after an offseason of rest, but it didn't. The pain returned when he was throwing off flat ground in preparation for Spring Training.
Last week, the decision was made for Graveman to have shoulder surgery, ending his 2024 season before it even began.
With the right-hander out of commissioner, there was suddenly an opening in the Astros' bullpen. Houston general manager Dana Brown quickly filled that hole by signing All-Star closer Josh Hader to a five-year, $95 million deal just days after Graveman's bad news.
During Hader's introductory press conference on Monday, Brown revealed that he decided to pursue the superstar closer the same day Graveman went under the knife, implying that his injury was the impetus for his decision.
Kudos to Brown for being decisive and aggressive here.
He needed a reliever, so he went out and got the best one on the market ASAP. Not only did Brown effectively replace Graveman, but he also acquired an upgrade.
Time will tell, but Graveman's injury might have made the Astros better in 2024 and beyond.
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