Houston Astros Closer Josh Hader Arrives at Spring Training With Injury Concern

Houston Astros fans hoping for a clean start to spring training woke up to unexpected news: star closer Josh Hader has arrived in camp with a fresh injury concern. The left-handed All-Star, who signed a massive deal with the Astros last season, is now being evaluated as the team ramps up toward Opening Day in Houston.

The issue surfaced as pitchers and catchers reported, with Astros staff confirming that Hader is dealing with discomfort that requires further monitoring. While the club has not revealed specifics, it was clear the team plans to bring him along cautiously, focusing on long-term readiness rather than early exhibition-game action.

Hader, known for his dominant strikeout ability and late-inning prowess, is expected to anchor a bullpen that faced inconsistencies last season. Houston signed him to solidify the ninth inning, but any setback—even a minor one—will spark questions about depth options such as Ryan Pressly and Bryan Abreu.

Why it Matters for the Astros

The Astros enter a pivotal season with championship expectations and a roster built to compete immediately. Hader’s presence is key to the team’s postseason ambitions, especially after the bullpen logged heavy innings in recent years. Losing him early, even temporarily, would force manager Joe Espada to adjust roles and rely more heavily on setup arms before the season even begins.

Houston’s front office emphasized offseason health and workload management, and Hader’s situation will test that strategy early. With weeks until the regular season, the team has time on its side—but the organization and fans are undoubtedly keeping a close eye on every medical update.

What’s Next

Team trainers will evaluate Hader as the spring schedule progresses, and updates are expected in the coming days. For now, coaches have indicated the goal is to avoid rushing him into mound sessions. His availability for early Grapefruit League games remains uncertain.

Should the Astros decide to hold him out longer, Pressly or Abreu could temporarily assume ninth-inning duties during spring training. Still, Houston remains hopeful the issue is minor and that Hader will be ready when the games begin to matter.

Astros fans know how critical bullpen stability can be, and all eyes are now on one of the team’s biggest offseason investments.

This article is a summary of reporting by MSN. Read the full story here.