The Houston Astros are currently facing some intriguing developments within their roster as they head into spring training. Notably, closer Josh Hader is experiencing a delay in his preparation due to biceps inflammation, which was revealed through imaging a couple of weeks back. Manager Joe Espada informed reporters at the start of camp that Hader has been resting for around ten days and is set to begin throwing from flat ground today. In a positive note, Hader expressed to the media that he feels "pretty good" after his brief period of inactivity. However, he did acknowledge that this setback puts him "probably a few weeks behind" schedule. While he hasn't ruled out the possibility of being ready for Opening Day, he refrained from providing a specific timeline for his rehabilitation process.
At 31 years old (turning 32 in April), Hader is entering the third year of a substantial five-year, $95 million contract. His performance has seen a mix of success; after a solid first season in Houston, he had a standout second year, boasting an overall earned run average (ERA) of 3.06. Impressively, he has managed to strike out a staggering 37.4% of opposing batters while maintaining a fairly average walk rate of 8.5%. In addition to this, he has accumulated 62 saves throughout his tenure with the team. Should Hader miss any time, Bryan Abreu is positioned to step up as the primary candidate for saves early in the season.
In other bullpen news, right-handed pitcher Enyel De Los Santos is currently sidelined from throwing due to a strain in his right knee. This injury was reported by McTaggart, noting that De Los Santos, who is 30 years old, was a cost-effective signing last August after being released by Atlanta. Since joining the Astros, he has pitched 22 and a third innings, registering a 4.03 ERA along with more favorable metrics like a 26.4% strikeout rate and a 6.6% walk rate. Despite allowing five home runs during his stint in Houston—averaging about 2.01 homers per nine innings—this trend is concerning, especially considering he had significantly better results in Atlanta and Cleveland, where he allowed just 0.53 home runs per nine frames from 2022 to 2023. De Los Santos is playing in the final season of club control under a $1.6 million salary.
Espada also updated reporters about catcher Yainer Diaz, who sustained a foot sprain while sliding into second base during the Dominican Winter League. This incident occurred back in December, and Diaz promptly traveled to Houston for evaluation and treatment. Currently, he is able to catch bullpens, swing the bat, and throw normally. Although Espada mentioned that Diaz is on a "modified" running program while his foot heals, there are no indications that he will miss the start of the season or face limitations during early exhibition games. Nevertheless, the Astros are reportedly exploring options for acquiring a backup catcher as a precaution.
On a broader scale, the Astros remain active in both the free agent and trade markets. They are reportedly looking for a left-handed-hitting outfielder as part of any trade discussions involving infielder Isaac Paredes, who is available for teams seeking power for their infield or designated hitter positions. General manager Dana Brown indicated that while trade discussions have slowed since the opening of camp, the organization remains open to making roster adjustments throughout spring training.
In addition to their search for a backup catcher and a left-handed outfielder, the Astros are also exploring trade possibilities involving Paredes and expensive first baseman Christian Walker. Furthermore, they have been gauging interest in center fielder Jake Meyers, showcasing a proactive approach to shaping their roster for the upcoming season.
What do you think about the Astros' current situation? Will Hader's recovery impact their chances early on? And could the search for a backup catcher lead to unexpected moves? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
