Josh Hader

April 12, 2026

Seemingly close to facing hitters

Hader (biceps) could face hitters next week, Chandler Rome of The Athletic reports.

Analysis

Hader began the season on the IL after being diagnosed with biceps inflammation in the early portion of spring training. Astros GM Dana Brown said in late March that the veteran closer would begin facing hitters by mid-April, and that scenario still seems to be very much in play. Hader has been tossing bullpen sessions, and throwing to live hitters would represent another significant step in his rehab program. Activation before the end of April remains a possibility.