WEST PALM BEACH, FL—All-Star closer Josh Hader’s availability for the start of the 2026 season remains a question mark as pitchers and catchers prepare to report to spring training this week.
Throwing Program Still Ramping Up
The 31-year-old left-hander has been working his way back from a left shoulder capsule strain that ended his 2025 season in mid-August. According to Astros general manager Dana Brown, Hader has been playing catch on flat ground and throwing lightly but has not yet progressed to full bullpen sessions like most pitchers at this stage of spring preparation.
Brown said Hader expects to have a better sense of his progress in the middle of the week as he continues his throwing program.
Dominant 2025 Season Cut Short
The injury marked the first time Hader had been placed on the injured list for a physical ailment in his nine-year major league career. He was shut down for three weeks after the diagnosis and did not return before the Astros’ season ended with their first playoff miss since 2016.
Before the injury, Hader was having an exceptional season. He posted a 2.05 ERA and converted 28 of 29 save opportunities, earning his sixth career All-Star selection. His .158 opponents’ batting average was his lowest since 2021.
Hader said in November that his shoulder felt “back to normal” after completing his rehab program, expressing optimism about having a regular spring training buildup. However, his current throwing program suggests the Astros are taking a cautious approach with their closer, who is in the third year of a five-year, $95 million contract.
The team should have a clearer picture of Hader’s readiness for Opening Day once he completes his next evaluation later this week.
