Astros get significant bullpen boost with return of six-time All-Star

Houston Astros pitcher Josh Hader. Rhona Wise-Imagn Images

Astros get significant bullpen boost with return of six-time All-Star

By Vanessa Serrao | Last updated Jun 2, 2026 5:27 PM ET

The Houston Astros are officially activating their star closer, Josh Hader, off the 60-day injured list.

The 32-year-old was diagnosed with left bicep tendinitis and has yet to make his debut this season. The injury occurred during an offseason workout session prior to spring training.

During the bullpen session, while throwing a changeup, he was experiencing discomfort (inflammation), which had him miss the start of the season.

Hader made his ninth minor league rehab start on May 28 with Triple-A Sugar Land and pitched one inning, allowing two runs (zero earned).

We have made the following roster moves: pic.twitter.com/UtHxotcDzk
— Houston Astros (@astros) June 2, 2026

How Josh Hader's return positively impacts the Astros

Gaining a critical piece back to their bullpen, the Astros had Bryan King Enyel De Los Santos and Bryan Abreu manage closing duties during his absence.

Both King and Santos combined to record 10 of the team's 15 saves this season. King, Santos and Abreu will return to high-leverage setup roles with Hader returning to his closer role.

Last season, Hader compiled a 6-2 record with a 2.05 ERA and 76 strikeouts and 28 saves across 52.2 innings pitched. The return of the six-time All-Star significantly stabilizes the back of the bullpen, providing the Astros with their shutdown closer.

His return takes pressure off Santos, King and Abreu who were pitching outside their comfort roles. Going back to anchoring the ninth inning, his presence will help revive a bullpen that recorded a high 5.16 ERA during his absence.

Known for being a weapon, Hader will provide the Astros with the opportunity to minimize leads in late-inning games.

Vanessa Serrao

Serrao is a freelance baseball writer who has covered all MLB teams, with particular expertise on the Toronto Blue Jays. She is a member of the Internet Baseball Writers Association of America.

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