Astros Place Hader on IL with Biceps Inflammation

Houston Astros All-Star closer Josh Hader will miss the start of the regular season after being placed on the 15-day injured list with left biceps inflammation, manager Joe Espada announced Wednesday from the team's spring training facility in West Palm Beach, Florida. The 31-year-old left-hander, who has not appeared in any exhibition games this spring, is expected to be sidelined until at least April 9, beyond the Astros' opener against the Los Angeles Angels on March 26.

Hader's placement stems from ongoing recovery challenges following a shoulder capsule strain that sidelined him after August 8 last season. He resumed throwing and catch sessions during the offseason but encountered biceps tendinitis during bullpen work in early February, delaying his ramp-up. Espada confirmed Hader threw a bullpen session earlier this week, but the issues, compounded by a late-2024 shoulder problem, have prevented him from being ready for the season's outset. The Astros hope the extra time will allow a full buildup without risking further setbacks.

In Hader's absence, right-hander Bryan Abreu will assume the closer role to open the year. Abreu, who recorded a career-high seven saves last...