Hader, though on the IL, is the Astros’ Clemente Award nominee for the year and can wear No. 21 on Clemente Day, underscoring the tribute’s reach.

<p>Hader remains on the shelf with a shoulder capsule strain, IL since Aug 12. No throwing progression yet, complicating late-season bullpen plans and playoff readiness, with relief depth now a premium for Houston.</p>

Hader’s absence due to a shoulder capsule strain has tightened the Astros’ late-game plan and forced adjustments in the ninth-inning landscape. His recovery timeline shapes how Houston charts its closing goods and what other relievers must prove in high-leverage spots down the stretch.

Hader remains on the IL with a shoulder capsule sprain, hasn’t resumed throwing; healing is progressing but no clearance yet.

Hader’s absence from the Astros’ late-inning plans tests a bullpen already depleted by injuries, elevating Abreu’s role as closer and increasing the stakes for the bridge men.