Josh Hader Can’t Be the Astros’ Only Answer at Closer in 2027

Josh Hader has been the Astros’ most clutch closer. When he was sidelined with left biceps tendinitis early in the season, it proved that the Astros desperately need someone else to fill in when he is not available, whether that is due to injury or simply a day off.

Bryan Abreu was not the answer to Hader’s absence. When he stepped into the closer role with Hader sidelined, Abreu wasn’t at his best. However, with Hader’s return, Abreu improved. On top of the fact that Abreu struggled in the closer role, there is a chance he may not be around next season anyway. Regardless, the Astros need another solid closer other than Hader.

Finding another closer at Hader’s level would be tricky, but even someone who came close to Hader’s level of performance could be a real difference-maker.

Breaking down Hader’s season for a closer look at the level the Astros are searching for:

2026 Regular Season

4–2, 1.01 ERA, 45 G, 26 SV, 44.2 IP, 55 SO, 0.76 WHIP

Career Regular Season

38–33, 2.50 ERA, 513 G, 253 SV, 557.0 IP, 884 SO, 0.92 WHIP

2026 Postseason

0–0, 0.00 ERA, 2 G, 0 SV, 2.1 IP, 2 SO, 1.29 WHIP

Hader was nothing short of excellent this season, aside from one rough outing. He is consistent and dependable in high-pressure situations, the kind of reliever fans watch walk to the mound and take a breath, knowing he’s just up there adding another save.

While we saw an improvement from Abreu once Hader returned from the IL, even if they hold onto Abreu, the Astros still need another reliable reliever in the bullpen. Abreu in the closer role: nine saves in 11 chances, with a 3.73 ERA overall. Hader’s absence rocked the bullpen more than it should have and proved they are lacking in that area.

Hader remains under contract through 2028, but Abreu and Steven Okert are set to enter free agency this offseason. That leaves Houston with more than just the question of who can fill in for Hader.

Looking internally, they have Enyel De Los Santos, who posted a 4.79 ERA with five saves, and Bryan King, who finished with a 5.19 ERA and six saves. Bennett Sousa is another option, along with former top prospect Miguel Ullola, who recorded a 2.16 ERA in 11 games.

Houston has a few options, but having relief experience is not the same as being ready to take the mound in the ninth for a clean save.

With limited internal options, the Astros will likely have to shop around. The difference between a bullpen that depends on one player and one that doesn’t fall apart when injuries happen greatly impacts the season.