Major League Baseball team Houston Astros' star pitcher Josh Hader is set to take a three-week break from pitching
Houston Astros' All-Star Closer Josh Hader Sidelined with Shoulder Injury
The Houston Astros have suffered a significant blow as their All-Star closer, Josh Hader, has been diagnosed with a left shoulder capsule strain. The injury will keep him out of action for approximately three weeks starting mid-August 2025, according to team general manager, Dana Brown.
Hader, who has been a crucial part of the Astros' bullpen, felt discomfort while throwing during training and was placed on the injured list for the first time in his career as a precaution. The setback, however, is not causing undue worry for the Astros, who are still leading their division, the American League West, by 1 1/2 games as of Friday.
During the initial rest period, Hader will undergo strengthening exercises to aid in his recovery. After the three-week rest period, he will be re-examined to assess his progress. If all goes well without setbacks, Hader is targeting a postseason return.
In the 2023 season, Hader has made 48 appearances for the Astros, recording a 6-2 win-loss record and a 2.05 ERA. He has also tied for third with 28 saves. The six-time All-Star, who is currently in his second year with the Houston Astros, has shown resilience in the face of this injury.
The Astros will continue to manage their bullpen during Hader's absence, with hopes of him contributing in the playoffs. Brown remains optimistic, expressing that he hopes Hader will feel better in the three-week rest period and be able to resume throwing a baseball. After resuming throwing, Hader will require about three more weeks to rebuild his arm strength and ramp back into pitching, making a return before the end of the regular season unlikely.
Despite the injury, the Astros' season continues to be promising. With 13 players on the injured list, the team has managed to maintain their leading position in the division. The Astros and their fans eagerly await Hader's return, hoping to bolster their postseason push.
[1] ESPN: Josh Hader placed on injured list with shoulder strain [2] MLB.com: Josh Hader lands on injured list with left shoulder strain [3] CBS Sports: Josh Hader's injury timeline: Astros closer out for at least three weeks [4] The Athletic: Josh Hader's injury leaves Astros bullpen without its best option [5] Sports Illustrated: Josh Hader Injury Update: Houston Astros Closer Placed on IL with Left Shoulder Strain
[1] Toronto news sources express concern over Houston Astros' Josh Hader's injury and its impact on the team's playoff chances.
[2] With Josh Hader sidelined, Toronto sports talk shows discuss potential alternatives in the Astros' bullpen during his absence.
[3] Baseball analysts in Toronto offer their opinions on Josh Hader's rehab timeline and its implications for the MLB's American League West division standings.
[4] Amidst the controversy surrounding the Houston Astros, some Toronto baseball fans question the team's decision to place All-Star closer Josh Hader on the injured list with a shoulder strain.
[5] As the MLB trade deadline approaches, Toronto sports journalists speculate whether the Astros will seek reinforcements in their bullpen while Josh Hader is recovering from his injury.
