In the middle of a difficult start to the season, the Houston Astros got some encouraging injury news Saturday.
Closer Josh Hader threw 25 pitches in a live batting practice session at Daikin Park before Saturday’s game, facing Astros hitters Braden Shewmake and Shay Whitcomb and touching 94 mph on his fastball. It was his third live BP since landing on the 60-day injured list with biceps tendinitis. Manager Joe Espada said Hader is scheduled to throw one more live BP next week, after which he could begin a minor league rehab assignment.
Right-hander Tatsuya Imai is scheduled to throw a bullpen session Sunday before making his own rehab outing. Espada did not specify a date for that outing or indicate whether Imai would require more than one before rejoining the rotation.
Both pitchers returning healthy would go a long way toward stabilizing a staff that entered Saturday with the highest ERA in the majors.
Heading to Daikin Park soon? Check the Astros promotions schedule before your next game.
