The Houston Astros entered spring training expecting stability at the back end of their bullpen. Instead, uncertainty has crept in. Six-time All-Star closer Josh Hader is now facing questions about his availability for Opening Day after manager Joe Espada confirmed the left-hander is dealing with biceps soreness in his throwing arm.
A Sudden Astros Setback in the Early Days of Camp
The timing is delicate. Pitchers and catchers have just reported, routines are being established, and contenders are fine-tuning expectations. Hader resumed his throwing program during the team’s first official workout, but the revelation that he had been shut down for more than a week earlier this winter adds a layer of concern. Imaging revealed inflammation in his left biceps, prompting the Astros to take a cautious route rather than push their star closer too aggressively.
General manager Dana Brown offered a careful update. Hader had ramped up to his fourth bullpen session, and the first three were described as seamless. Just as important, the left-hander has reportedly felt good for several consecutive days and was scheduled to throw again. Still, neither Brown nor Espada could provide a definitive timeline, leaving open the possibility that Houston may have to make difficult roster decisions as Opening Day approaches.
Not a Repeat of Last Season’s Shoulder Trouble
For many in Houston, the immediate concern was whether this issue was tied to the left shoulder capsule strain that sidelined Hader for the final 46 games last season. That injury marked the first time in nine years he had landed on the injured list for anything other than illness. It was an uncharacteristic interruption for a pitcher known for durability.
However, the current biceps inflammation is not believed to be related to the prior shoulder injury. Hader stated publicly in December that he felt “back to normal,” reinforcing the sense that last year’s setback had been fully resolved. The distinction matters. Separate issues suggest precaution rather than recurrence, though caution remains the prevailing theme.
Houston’s Bullpen Hinges on His Reliability
The Astros’ concern stems from what Hader represents. In his first season with Houston, he posted a 2.05 ERA over 48 appearances and converted 28 of 29 save opportunities. His presence provided late-inning certainty for a club built on postseason expectations.
Across nine major league seasons with Milwaukee, San Diego, and Houston, Hader has compiled 227 saves and a 2.64 ERA in 468 appearances. Few closers combine swing-and-miss dominance with sustained consistency the way he has. That track record is precisely why any uncertainty, however minor it may ultimately prove to be, carries weight.
Spring training is designed for gradual buildup and careful monitoring. For now, Houston’s message is steady but measured: Hader is throwing, he feels good, and progress continues. Yet until a clear timeline emerges, the Astros’ Opening Day outlook remains tied to the health of their most dependable finisher.
