Houston Astros

Hader (biceps) does not have a bullpen session scheduled yet, manager Joe Espada said Thursday. He tossed the ball off the mound on Wednesday, though the activity did not constitute a formal bullpen session. (Source: Matt Kawahara)

Fantasy Impact: Bryan Abreu is positioned to serve as Houston's closer if Hader is unavailable. Wednesday marked Hader's mound work limited to playing catch.

Alvarez dealt with injury issues throughout last season. He is now considered fully healthy and Houston is taking a gradual approach with his spring preparation. (Source: Brian McTaggart)

Fantasy Impact: Manager Joe Espada said Thursday that Alvarez will appear in his first Grapefruit League game next week. The organization plans to use Alvarez primarily at designated hitter this season, though he will still receive occasional starts in left field.