Injuries have come at a plentiful rate for the Houston Astros in 2025, and recently their best pitcher was put on the shelf for the remainder of the regular season, as closer Josh Hader was shut down with a left shoulder strain.
And with the regular season wrapping up soon, Hader has still yet to resume pitching activities as of Tuesday.
That said, a return to the bump from Hader in the ALDS isn't looking too good right now, given that a three-week process is necessary for Hader to get back to his prime production.
Who Can Joe Espada Trust?
With Houston's pitching nil to begin with, the injury to Hader has to be overwhelming to Astros manager Joe Espada, who needs to find a new trustworthy closer as the inevitable playoffs loom for the Space City team.
According to Gavin Groe from Athlon Sports, that trustworthy option is Bryan Abreu, who has been great for the team in his relieving role, holding a 2.25 ERA while striking out 98 batters in just 64 innings in his 63 games appeared in.
Groe also made a case for future Hall of Famer Craig Kimbrel, who the team recently signed after Hader's injury.
"If Espada wants to pivot to another right-hander with more experience as a closer, recently signed Craig Kimbrel could be an option, Groe wrote. "The veteran has yet to allow a run over his first eight appearances with Houston and has struck out nine hitters."
The Astros are 4-6 in their last 10 games, and their lead over the Seattle Mariners in the AL West in now down to a sole game.