De Los Santos worked the eighth and had the first two outs of the ninth before Sousa closed. His role could grow as part of a flexible late-inning plan if Hader’s status remains uncertain, making him a speculative source of holds and bridge appearances for fantasy managers.

De Los Santos worked the ninth for two outs on Monday, appearing as a high-leverage option behind Hader. If Hader misses time, De Los Santos could be a primary closer candidate, especially in high-leverage saves.

De Los Santos pitched in the ninth to close or hold the game in Hader’s absence, delivering a clean inning in a high-leverage moment. His role will likely grow as part of a bullpen committee, with a focus on bridging the late innings while the closer recovers.

De Los Santos came in late to face a Boston threat, throwing a pitch that ended the frame with a strikeout in a critical moment. His brief appearance and the earlier bullpen usage underscore the Astros’ bullpen depth and potential late-inning stability.

De Los Santos signed with Houston for bullpen depth, bringing a veteran right-hander with MLB experience from multiple clubs to stabilize the Houston relief corps as it battles injuries and a playoff race. His move to face his former Yankees in a high-stakes series adds personal motivation and a clear early test for his new role.