The Houston Astros have been no stranger to injuries in 2025, at one point the club had as many as 18 players on the injured list. And despite having that many setbacks, the Astros are still poised to make another deep postseason run.

However, the latest news from manager Joe Espada is going to provide another challenge for the team. Houston closer Josh Hader, who was placed on the 15-day IL on Tuesday, is going to miss more time than initially expected.

Espada spoke with the media on Wednesday afternoon and said Hader is seeking a second opinion on his strained shoulder.

You don't have to be a doctor to know getting a second opinion usually involves the patient not being happy with the first opinion. While no information was conveyed about the results of the first examination, Espada told reporters Hader would be out longer than 15 days.

The problem with injuries this close to the end of the season is there's not a lot of time to get healthy and return to the field. And the Astros bullpen has been the strength of the club all season.

For now, the Astros turn to Bryan Abreu and a host of others to close out games, Houston GM Dana Brown said on the Astros flagship on Wednesday.

On the positive side of things, Yordan Alvarez is progressing with his hand injury. He will take live BP this weekend.

Getting Yordan back could help soften the blow of losing Hader for the foreseeable future.

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