Josh Hader Injury: Astros Closer Aims for Postseason Return

10 months agoUS
Josh Hader Injury: Astros Closer Aims for Postseason ReturnSource: mlb.com
Houston Astros All-Star closer Josh Hader is expected to miss the remainder of the regular season due to a left shoulder capsule sprain. The injury raises concerns for the Astros as they contend for the American League West title, but Hader is optimistic about returning for the postseason. The team will rely on Bryan Abreu and Bennett Sousa to fill the closer role in his absence.

Key Insights

Josh Hader is likely out for the rest of the regular season with a left shoulder capsule sprain.

He will be shut down from throwing for three weeks, followed by a three-week ramp-up period.

Hader hopes to return for the postseason.

Bryan Abreu and Bennett Sousa are the leading candidates to close games in Hader's absence.

Hader's reluctance to pitch multiple innings may be a factor in his recovery and potential postseason role.

Why this matters: Hader's absence impacts the Astros' bullpen and their chances of securing a strong playoff position. His potential return for the postseason could provide a significant boost to their championship aspirations.

In-Depth Analysis

Josh Hader's injury is a significant blow to the Houston Astros as they navigate the final stretch of the regular season. The All-Star closer, who has saved 28 games this year, will be sidelined for at least six weeks due to a left shoulder capsule sprain. This timeline likely rules him out for the remainder of the regular season, with a potential return in the playoffs.

The Astros' manager, Joe Espada, has not named a new closer, but Bryan Abreu and Bennett Sousa are the frontrunners for the job. Abreu has been performing well, and Sousa has experience in high-leverage situations. General manager Dana Brown expressed confidence in the bullpen's ability to handle Hader's absence, citing the performances of Abreu, Sousa, Steven Okert, and Kaleb Ort.

Hader's injury also raises questions about his workload and usage patterns. He has been used in multiple-inning outings this season, which he has been reluctant to do in the past. The team will need to carefully manage his workload upon his return to ensure his long-term health and effectiveness.

How to Prepare:

Fantasy baseball managers should look to Bryan Abreu and Bennett Sousa for saves opportunities.

Astros fans should monitor the performance of the bullpen in Hader's absence.

Who This Affects Most:

The Houston Astros and their chances of winning the American League West.

Fantasy baseball managers who rely on Hader for saves.

FAQs

Q: What is Josh Hader's injury?

He has a left shoulder capsule sprain.

Q: How long will he be out?

Likely the rest of the regular season.

Q: Who will replace him as closer?

Bryan Abreu and Bennett Sousa are the leading candidates.

Q: Is there a chance he returns for the playoffs?

Hader is optimistic about a postseason return, but it depends on his recovery.

Key Takeaways

Josh Hader's injury is a setback for the Astros, but they have capable replacements in the bullpen.

Hader's potential return for the playoffs is a key storyline to watch.

Fantasy baseball managers should adjust their rosters accordingly.

The Astros will need to manage Hader's workload carefully in the future.

Discussion

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