Houston Astros pitchers Josh Hader and Enyel De Los Santos are currently addressing injury setbacks during spring training, with Hader managing a biceps injury and De Los Santos dealing with a knee concern. Astros manager Joe Espada confirmed that both relievers were scheduled to throw bullpen sessions on Tuesday, offering a positive indication regarding their recovery process. The Enyel De Los Santos injury update provides optimism for the Astros’ bullpen as they prepare for the 2026 season.
Josh Hader’s Importance and Recent Performance
At 31 years old, Josh Hader remains one of the top closers in Major League Baseball, making his health crucial to Houston’s prospects in 2026. Despite facing injury problems in 2025, Hader managed to maintain a strong 2.05 ERA over 48 appearances and secured 28 saves, demonstrating his value when available. The Astros will rely heavily on him to bolster their bullpen moving forward.
Enyel De Los Santos’ Role and Statistics from Last Season
Enyel De Los Santos, who joined the Astros midway through the 2025 season, appeared in 22 games as a reliever for Houston and posted a 4.03 ERA. When combining his 2025 performance with the Astros and Atlanta Braves, De Los Santos pitched in 65 games and held an overall 4.36 ERA. The right-handed pitcher’s ability to return fully healthy is a key component of the Astros’ bullpen depth.
Astros’ 2025 Season Challenges and Outlook for 2026
The Astros experienced a mixed 2025 campaign, winning 87 games but ultimately missing the playoffs. Injuries to crucial players like Hader and De Los Santos contributed to struggles, along with some inconsistent team performances. As one of baseball’s most consistently strong teams over the past decade, Houston aims to rebound in 2026, with bullpen health expected to be a determining factor in their success.
Monitoring Injury Status for Key Pitchers
The Astros organization remains vigilant in tracking the rehabilitation of both Josh Hader and Enyel De Los Santos. Continued updates will be provided as the pitchers progress through their recoveries, which will be closely watched by the team and fans alike ahead of the upcoming season.
Some morning updates from Espada:
– Hader (biceps) and De Los Santos (knee) will throw bullpens tomorrow
– Cavan Biggio will take live BP today
– HOFer Billy Wagner is in camp today
– Espada is going to the Venezuela/Nicaragua WBC game tonight — Omar López vs. Dusty Baker
— Brian McTaggart (@brianmctaggart) March 9, 2026
