Astros closer Josh Hader's status for Opening Day uncertain after biceps inflammation

Hader's potential absence to start the season could be mitigated by the Astros' offseason spending spree on pitching.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Houston Astros closer Josh Hader is dealing with biceps inflammation, putting his status for Opening Day in question. Hader resumed throwing on Wednesday but had been shut down for 10-11 days earlier this offseason due to the issue. Astros manager Joe Espada and general manager Dana Brown expressed optimism about Hader's recovery, but acknowledged the timeline is uncertain.

Why it matters

Hader's potential absence would force the Astros to rely more heavily on setup man Bryan Abreu, who filled in as closer for the final two months of last season. The Astros' offseason pitching acquisitions, however, provide depth and flexibility to handle Hader's potential absence to start the year.

The details

Hader, a six-time All-Star, is entering the third season of a five-year, $95 million contract with the Astros. He missed the final 46 games of last season with a left shoulder capsule sprain, the first time he had been on the injured list. The Astros say Hader had thrown three 'really, really good bullpens' before feeling the biceps soreness.

  • Hader felt the biceps soreness before a bullpen session this winter.
  • Hader was shut down from throwing for '10 or 11 days' earlier this offseason.
  • Hader resumed his throwing program on Wednesday during the team's first workout for pitchers and catchers.

The players

Josh Hader

A six-time All-Star closer for the Houston Astros who is entering the third season of a five-year, $95 million contract.

Joe Espada

The manager of the Houston Astros.

Dana Brown

The general manager of the Houston Astros.

Bryan Abreu

The Astros' setup man who filled in as closer for the final two months of last season.

Enyel De Los Santos

A potential leverage reliever for the Astros who was shut down from throwing after straining his right knee.

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What they’re saying

“I don't know really the timeline on it. The good thing is he was ramping it up and was on his fourth (bullpen session). The first three were seamless. The good thing is he feels good right now, he's been feeling good for a few days and he's going to throw today.”

— Dana Brown, General Manager (nytimes.com)

“I'm feeling really good that we have some extra pieces so that, if guys are delayed a little bit, it's going to be fine. We don't have to panic or go out and make a move or bring up a young guy that we weren't expecting to bring up. That was part of the plan to really pound the pitching this offseason.”

— Dana Brown, General Manager (nytimes.com)

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.