Josh Hader

Josh Hader (biceps) will begin the regular season on the IL.

Fantasy Impact

Hader has been progressing from bicep inflammation in his pitching arm, and his most recent bullpen session reportedly went well. Still, the six-time All-Star will simply need time beyond Opening Day to fully build up his arm before being ready to take the mound for the Astros. Bryan Abreu will likely take on closing duties until Hader returns.

Hader (biceps) developed left biceps inflammation before arriving at Houston's camp. Tuesday's bullpen session marked his first mound work since the inflammation surfaced, with 15 pitches thrown.

Fantasy Impact

He assessed the session positively, citing satisfaction with his velocity, pitch action and mechanics. Hader said the session brought "all positives." Opening Day availability remains uncertain - when asked about the possibility, he responded "we'll see." The prevailing expectation points to a 15-day injured list assignment to open the season, though strong performance over the next two weeks could alter Houston's approach.

Hader (biceps) developed left biceps inflammation before arriving at Houston's camp. Tuesday will mark his first mound work since the inflammation surfaced, with a bullpen session scheduled.

Fantasy Impact

Opening Day availability has not been officially ruled out, though an injured list stint appears probable. Bryan Abreu is positioned to handle closing duties for the Astros if Hader begins the season unavailable.

Hader (biceps) sat out the final seven-plus weeks of last season with a left shoulder strain. He has not appeared in a game since early August of last year.

Fantasy Impact

Left biceps inflammation developed before he reported to Houston's camp. Hader has been restricted to flat-ground throwing since arriving. A bullpen session is planned for early next week. Bryan Abreu is positioned to handle closing duties for the Astros early in the season.

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.

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.