With the news that ace reliever Josh Hader is on the 15-day injured list due to a left shoulder strain, the Houston Astros must take on a "next-man-up" mentality in the next few weeks.
Losing Hader for any amount of time could be tough for the Astros to overcome. So far this season, he has 28 saves in 52.2 innings pitched. He's struck out 76 batters while giving up 16 walks and has a 0.85 WHIP, according to StatMuse.
Astros manager Joe Espada met with media members ahead of Tuesday's game against the Boston Red Sox and lamented the situation.
"A punch in the gut," says Joe Espada on the #Astros losing Josh Hader to the 15-day injured list.
— Jason Bristol (@JBristolKHOU) August 12, 2025
"Hopefully, its not going to be a long-term thing.
"What you guys saw yesterday - how we piece it together - we're going to have to do more of that."@KHOU pic.twitter.com/WOkDSfOwo7
"A punch in the gut," Espada told reporters about the Hader news. "Hopefully, its not going to be a long-term thing. What you guys saw yesterday — how we piece it together — we're going to have to do more of that."
The Astros' bullpen must learn to perform better. Without Hader, the bullpen loses its ace and how Espada structures his relievers comes more into focus.
Let's take a look at who Espada might consider to fill Hader's spot or serve as a middle-innings reliever who can get the Astros to that ninth-inning location.
Bryan Abreu
Don't be surprised if Abreu, the Astros' ace set-up man, takes over the closer's role. Abreu has been solid this season in setting up Hader for a smooth ninth inning. He is 3-3 with a 1.67 ERA in 54 innings of work, according to StatMuse.
Colton Gordon
Gordon was called up from Triple-A Sugar Land on Tuesday after the club designated right-hander Hector Neris for assignment. Gordon has been effective when called upon in tight situations. He might be a long-relief pick for Espada to consider.
Eury De Los Santos
De Los Santos has been a journeyman pitcher in MLB. He was picked up recently by the Astros as another arm to help bolster the bullpen. If Espada needs a middle-innings reliever, then De Los Santos might be his guy.
Other options
The Astros have several other options available, too. Pitchers Kaleb Ort, Bryan King and Steven Okert are also on the roster and might be looked upon for long relief at this time. Espada has leaned on them when his starters haven't been able to go deep into games.
More must-reads:
Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!