Josh Hader Expected to Miss Three Weeks with Shoulder Strain

The Houston Astros just took a tough hit to their bullpen. Star closer Josh Hader has a left shoulder capsule strain.

This is more than a minor setback for the team’s playoff hopes. It’s also the first time in Hader’s impressive nine-year career that he’s landed on the injured list.

The Astros say he won’t throw for about three weeks. After that, they’ll check his progress and decide if he’s ready to return.

Hader’s Road to Recovery

Astros manager Joe Espada said Hader wanted a second opinion before agreeing to a rehab plan. That level of caution really shows how much both he and the team value his health and impact.

Rest and Rehab as the Primary Strategy

General manager Dana Brown shared that Hader’s recovery will focus on rest and targeted strengthening exercises. Surgery isn’t on the table right now, which Brown called “encouraging.”

The plan is to slowly get stability and strength back in Hader’s shoulder. They won’t even think about a throwing program until he’s ready.

The Impact on Houston’s Bullpen

Losing Hader, even for a few weeks, is a real gut punch for Houston. In his second season with the Astros, he’s been lights out—posting a 6-2 record and a sharp 2.05 ERA.

He’s tied for third in the majors with 28 saves in 48 appearances. That’s elite closer territory, no question.

First IL Stint of a Decorated Career

For a pitcher who’s always been reliable, this is a first he definitely didn’t want. The six-time All-Star has earned his reputation by racking up big strikeouts in the game’s most stressful moments.

Now the Astros have to fill that gap with a mix of bullpen arms. Sure, they have other relievers with closing experience, but losing Hader’s intimidation and steadiness? That’s tough to replace.

Why a Shoulder Capsule Strain Matters

A shoulder capsule strain happens when the connective tissue around the shoulder joint gets injured or irritated. This can mess with a pitcher’s stability, range of motion, and mechanics—pretty much everything Hader relies on for those nasty fastballs and sliders.

The Astros’ medical staff won’t rush him back. They want to avoid making things worse or risking a setback.

Possible Timeline and Pitching Depth

The current plan calls for three weeks of no throwing, but that’s just the start. Even after that, Hader will need time to rebuild his arm and get his rhythm back.

Honestly, he could be out longer than three weeks, depending on how his shoulder responds. In the meantime, Houston will have to get creative with their bullpen.

They might try a closer-by-committee setup, with guys like Ryan Pressly and Bryan Abreu getting more ninth-inning chances. It’s not ideal, but what choice do they have?

Looking Ahead for the Astros and Hader

With the playoffs coming up fast, Houston’s desperate to get Hader back to full strength. His knack for slamming the door in close games isn’t something you find every day.

If his rehab goes well, there’s hope he’ll return in time to make a difference in October. But until then, the Astros will have to hold their breath and hope their bullpen can weather the storm.

Key Takeaways

Here’s what you need to know about Josh Hader’s situation:

• Injury: Left shoulder capsule strain. This is actually his first trip to the IL.
• Recovery Plan: He’ll rest and focus on strengthening. No surgery needed, thankfully.
• Timeline: He won’t throw for about three weeks.
• Season Stats: Hader’s posted a 6-2 record, a 2.05 ERA, and 28 saves over 48 appearances.
• Impact: The Astros’ bullpen faces a big test here, especially with the playoffs looming.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Astros say Hader won’t throw for about 3 weeks