Astros Reveal Troubling Update on Injured Closer Josh Hader

August 15, 2025 ,

Josh Hader, Astros closer, is shut down for 3 weeks

 This is not what the Houston Astros needed as they fight to fend off the hard-charging Seattle Mariners atop the American League's West Division. They've announced that injured closer Josh Hader will be shut down for three weeks. 

Hader has a left shoulder capsule sprain, and will not throw for "approximately three weeks" After that, the Astros say, the next steps will be determined. 

Shockingly, it's the first trip to the IL for Hader in his career. And the MLB Tonight crew is concerned about the Astros down the stretch.

"They're going to need some guys to step up," said Dan Plesac. While recognizing that Hader's regular set-up man Bryan Abreu is probably able to step in and close, what about the innings in front of him? 

"If Abreu steps up, the problem is, that takes that pecking order that's been so great, in the 7th and 8th... that creates an open space," added Plesac.

Hader had 28 saves with a 2.05 ERA, fresh off his 6th All-Star appearance. 

"I see them struggling right here," said Chris Young. "I think this is something that's going to bring some problems to Houston."

The Astros are clinging to a 1.5 game lead over the Mariners at the moment, after Seattle's eight-game win streak was snapped by the Orioles with two losses. But overall, Seattle is looking like the team to beat right now, despite the slim deficit. 


Photo: © Thomas Shea-Imagn Images

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