Josh Hader Says He’s ‘Back to Normal,’ Offering Encouraging Sign for Houston Astros

Houston Astros fans received encouraging news this week, as All-Star reliever Josh Hader said he feels "back to normal" following the shoulder issue that ended his season early. His progress arrives at a crucial moment for the team, which needs stability in the bullpen heading into 2025. The update also gives Houston residents a clearer picture of what to expect when the Astros return to full strength next spring.

Hader Feeling Strong Again After Shoulder Damage

Hader suffered a shoulder injury late in the 2024 season, forcing the Astros to shut him down during a tight playoff race. The left-hander arrived in Houston last winter as one of the club's biggest free-agent signings, but his first year with the organization delivered mixed results due to inconsistency and discomfort in his throwing arm.

Now, the hard-throwing reliever says his shoulder has recovered, and he has resumed normal offseason workouts. That shift marks a significant stride for both Hader and the Astros, who heavily invested in him to anchor the back end of their bullpen.

While the team has not offered an official timetable, Hader's own update indicates he expects to enter spring training without restrictions. That outcome would boost Houston's chances of returning to the postseason after a down year.

Why It Matters for the Houston Astros

The Astros relied on Hader to serve as a stabilizing force in late innings. However, his inconsistent availability left the bullpen stretched thin. Because of that, the team used several younger pitchers in high-pressure moments, which created uneven results.

His return to form could bring several benefits:

• Houston’s bullpen gains an elite strikeout arm again.
• Manager Joe Espada gets more flexibility with matchup decisions.
• The team can shift younger relievers into more suitable roles.

As Houston works to rebound in 2025, Hader's health carries real weight. His presence gives the club its best chance to shorten games and reduce wear on the rotation.

What’s Next for Hader and the Team

With the offseason underway, Hader plans to continue building strength while the Astros evaluate their pitching staff for needed upgrades. The front office may still add bullpen depth, yet having Hader healthy offers a reliable foundation.

The Astros open spring training in a few months, and all signs point toward Hader arriving ready for a full workload. If his recovery stays on track, Houston could regain one of the sport’s strongest late-inning combinations.

For fans across Houston, the update delivers a welcome dose of optimism after a challenging season.

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