Calls Mount for Astros to Sign Former Pitcher After Josh Hader News

Aug 12, 2025 12:08 AM EDT

On Monday night, the Houston Astros defeated the Boston Red Sox to secure their second consecutive victory and their third in four games.

With a little over a month left in the regular season, Houston is in a good spot to make another postseason appearance, though they must end the season strong. With a 67-52 record, they are one game ahead of the Seattle Mariners for the AL West lead.

Following Monday’s game, the Astros will aim to keep their momentum going with another victory against Boston on Tuesday. However, the team made a troubling announcement regarding All-Star reliever Josh Hader that will be worth monitoring in the meantime.

Houston Astros relief pitcher Josh Hader (71). — Source: Troy Taormina/USA TODAY Sports

As Houston looks to continue their hot streak, it will be crucial that they stay as healthy as possible. Unfortunately for them, they may have some ground to make up with Hader, who did not appear in Monday’s game, potentially being out for a period of time.

The Astros announced via manager Joe Espada that the 31-year-old was unavailable for the team’s game against Boston due to shoulder discomfort. Additionally, he is undergoing tests to determine the severity of his injury.

“Josh Hader was unavailable due to shoulder discomfort, Joe Espada said. He is undergoing tests,” Chandler Rome of The Athletic wrote on X.

On Monday, the Astros began the ninth inning with Enyel De Los Santos, who recorded two outs. However, Bennett Sousa entered the game later and closed it out, earning the save. If Hader is out for any amount of time, they will each be players to keep an eye on in the closer role.

Astros Have Decision to Make Amid Josh Hader Injury

Now in his second season in Houston, Hader is putting together another solid campaign. The Maryland native was named an All-Star for the first time since 2023 and the sixth time in his MLB career. If he misses any time, the Astros have a decision to make on who will step into the closer role.

Additionally, the team may have to bring in outside reinforcements to help the bullpen. One name is already being floated — former Astros closer Ryan Pressly.

A 2022 World Series champion with Houston, Pressly is currently a free agent after being released by the Chicago Cubs earlier this month. Several fans are calling for his return.

“Ryan Pressley welcome back!!!” said one.

“Welcome back to the Ryan Pressley experience,” said another.

“And now it’s time for him to sign off – and we sign on to Pressley for a final rebirth,” one added.

“Go get Ryan Pressly,” said another

“Ryan Pressly is BACK,” one added.

“Ryan Pressly is somewhere, twiddling his thumbs, waiting for that call as the Astros get the band back together,” said one.

Chicago Cubs pitcher Ryan Pressly (55) — Source: © Erik Williams-Imagn Images

Through 48 appearances this season, Hader has a 2.05 ERA and has recorded 28 saves. Additionally, he has a 6-2 record, and his 0.854 WHIP is among the lowest of his career. As for Pressly, he was let go after posting a 4.35 ERA in 44 games for Chicago.

Hader is one of the best closers in the majors, and he has been a big part of Houston’s success this season. Hopefully for the team, he can return from his injury sooner rather than later as they look to end the season on a high note and compete for a World Series title once again.