After an injury-riddled season last year, the Astros are already dealing with injuries and setbacks before the regular season even begins.
Bennett Sousa, a left-handed relief pitcher, will start the season on the 15-day injured list due to a strained left oblique.
Sousa was expected to play a key bullpen role, likely as a setup/bridge reliever, but there is currently no official timeline for his return.
Because of his important role in the bullpen, being placed on the injured list leaves a gap in late-inning depth, forcing the Astros to adjust bullpen roles.
Looking at his 2025 stats, here’s what the Astros will be missing at the start of the 2026 season:
- 5–1 record with a 2.84 ERA in 44 appearances
- 7 holds and 4 saves
- 59 strikeouts in 50 innings
- Opponents hit just .204 against him
- Proven ability to handle high-leverage situations
Sousa was primarily a middle reliever and setup man, occasionally filling in for closer duties and other high-pressure situations when the team needed him.
Now the Astros are without a player who provides both reliability and flexibility in the bullpen.
This is not the first time the 30-year-old reliever has dealt with injuries, as he has had several setbacks in recent years.
So what does his absence mean for the Astros?
Finding a replacement is now a top priority for Houston. His return timeline could affect bullpen stability early in the season.
The key question now: who will step up while he’s out?