Astros Facing Decision After Unfortunate Josh Hader Update

Josh Hader Injury Update

Unfortunately, Hader has been sidelined and shut down from throwing since August 15 after dealing with a left shoulder capsule strain.

Although he’s trending in the right direction and continuing to rehab, the Astros medical team revealed that as of Tuesday, September 9, he has still not resumed throwing.

With at least a three-week ramp-up required even after he begins, this latest update signals that a return during a potential AL Division Series for Houston seems unrealistic.

Joe Espada Facing Tough Decision as MLB Playoffs Near

After this troubling development on their shutdown closer, Astros manager Joe Espada is faced with a difficult decision on who to trust down the stretch to close crucial games for Houston. While not possible to replace Hader’s production, Espada does have options out of the bullpen.

The most obvious answer is Bryan Abreu, a 28-year-old right-hander who has primarily operated as the team’s setup man for the past seven seasons. Abreu has continued to be sharp in 2025, posting a 2.25 ERA in 63 appearances while striking out 98 batters in 64 innings of work.

If Espada wants to pivot to another right-hander with more experience as a closer, recently signed Craig Kimbrel could be an option. The veteran has yet to allow a run over his first eight appearances with Houston and has struck out nine hitters.

If the opponent features multiple left-handed hitters, Espada could turn to Bryan King to shut the door. The left-hander has been consistently solid over the last two years with the Astros. King doesn’t have much experience saving games, but if Espada wants to dominate lefty matchups, he could be the best choice.

For now, Houston’s focus remains on clinching the AL West, with the Seattle Mariners just two games behind and the surging Texas Rangers only 3.5 games back.