Abreu to start season as Astros closer
Mar 12 2026
AMERICAN LEAGUE
Houston Astros
NEWS: Manager Joe Espada confirmed that LHP Josh Hader will begin the season on the IL with left bicep inflammation and that RHP Bryan Abreu would step into the closer’s role to begin the season.
IMPACT: High
BHQ SPIN: This is the short-term arrangement we expected once it was reported that Hader was shut down from his throwing sessions in early February; he just ran out of time to get ramped up for the regular season. He did throw his first bullpen earlier this week, but the late-2025 shoulder issue and now this bicep issue bring some more long-term risk into the picture. Abreu, at least, is the sure-fire backup and should garner the saves in the short term. Our projected saves split for the regular...
Almost!
You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!
Already a subscriber? Sign in here
More From PT Today
The Red Sox scramble to adjust to Curtis Mead's broken wrist; as do the Giants with Casey Schmitt. Also the PT effects of the Javier Báez and Kiké Hernández returns.
Jul 29 2026 9:08am
Jul 29 2026 9:08am
A flurry of Monday IL moves, headlined by Cody Bellinger, Kerry Carpenter, and Spencer Steer being deactivated. Meanwhile, Ronald Acuna returns to Atlanta's active roster, plus much more...
Jul 28 2026 8:30am
Jul 28 2026 8:30am
Jonah Heim takes over for Shea Langeliers in Sacramento; Prielipp returns to Minnesota rotation; Lance McCullers DFA'd, and more.
Jul 27 2026 8:29am
Jul 27 2026 8:29am
All the ramifications of the Connelly Early/Curtis Mead trade; J. Soto, Jung, Arrighetti head to the IL; Kurtz and Suárez re-enter lineups, and more.
Jul 26 2026 9:13am
Jul 26 2026 9:13am
Angel Martínez is back from a broken foot; more info on Max Meyer; Juan Soto dealing with calf discomfort, and all the playing time ripples therein.
Jul 25 2026 8:30am
Jul 25 2026 8:30am
