Josh Hader’s recovery from biceps inflammation, which began in late January, continues to hamper his preparation for the 2026 MLB season with the Houston Astros. Throughout Spring Training, his throwing has been restricted to light catch sessions, delaying his ramp-up toward game readiness as the Astros approach Opening Day.
Astros manager Joe Espada informed reporters, including Houston Chronicle’s Matt Kawahara, that Hader would maintain this limited throwing routine for the week. However, Espada offered no specific timeline for when Hader might advance to more intensive throwing or become available for regular-season duty.
“I think we still have a little bit more time. Once we start getting down to that we’ll talk more on that, but right now it’s still premature just to see where we’re at by March 26,”
Espada stated.
Impact of Injury History on Hader’s Preparation and Role
Unlike starting pitchers who require extensive build-up, Hader’s role as a relief pitcher normally demands a more limited workload during pre-season. Yet, Hader’s recent injury troubles have hindered his typical routine, as he has not been able to match his usual minimum of six Spring Training appearances recorded each year over the past three seasons. With Opening Day approaching fast, this shortfall raises concerns about his readiness.
This latest biceps issue follows a more severe injury from last August when a sprained left shoulder capsule cut Hader’s season short. Although he avoided surgery and successfully completed a throwing program in November, aiming for a full Spring Training return, the new inflammation has again delayed his progress.
Potential Interim Closer and Bullpen Adjustments
Last season’s injury to Hader saw Bryan Abreu take over the majority of save opportunities, and he remains the Astros’ top candidate to assume closing duties should Hader require placement on the 15-day injured list to start this season. While Abreu has demonstrated reliability in high-pressure situations, the absence of a star arm like Hader inevitably strains Houston’s bullpen depth.
With Hader’s status uncertain, the spotlight intensifies on the remainder of the Astros’ relief staff, both in terms of performance quality and injury concerns.
Status Update on Other Astros Relievers amid Bullpen Challenges
Right-handed pitcher Enyel De Los Santos has begun throwing again following a minor right knee strain suffered early in camp. Manager Espada remains optimistic, anticipating De Los Santos will be ready to resume mound work by next week. Given that De Los Santos pitched in winter ball, stepping up to full readiness for Opening Day may be achievable within a short timeframe.
De Los Santos, who joined Houston last August, showed promise with a 4.03 ERA, 6.6% walk rate, and a 26.4% strikeout rate over 22⅓ innings with the Astros. He secured a one-year, $1.6 million contract for the 2026 season, avoiding arbitration and gaining some stability after playing for eight different MLB teams during his seven-year career.
Broader Implications for the Astros as Season Begins
The lingering uncertainty surrounding Josh Hader’s biceps injury clouds the Astros’ bullpen strategy as they prepare for their opening game. Losing a proven closer would increase pressure on relievers like Bryan Abreu and Enyel De Los Santos to deliver in critical moments. Manager Joe Espada and Houston’s coaching staff will continue monitoring Hader’s progress closely, weighing pitching staff adjustments as needed.
As March 26 approaches, further clarity is expected on whether Hader can return soon or if the Astros must adapt their relief corps plans in response to his injury. This situation underscores the importance of bullpen depth in a team aiming for postseason success.
