Houston Astros star closer Josh Hader is set to return from injury on Tuesday. The 32-year-old has not made his 2026 debut yet due to a bicep injury. Hader had been trending in the right direction in recent weeks, and now he is indeed being activated from the injured list. Hader spoke to reporters before Tuesday night’s game against the Houston Astros.

“It’s definitely nice, I’m able to compete now,” Hader said, via Brian McTaggart of MLB.com. “Been counting down the days for sure. Definitely been a long journey for me. Obviously offseason in between, I never really got to pitch once I came back… We’re here now. I did everything I could to get back as quick as possible and I’m feeling strong. Ultimately that’s all I can ask for.”

Hader, a six-time All-Star, is one of the best closers in the game. He has spent the past two seasons in Houston with the Astros. However, he has been mentioned as a possible trade candidate this year.

At 27-34, Houston is in fourth place in the American League West standings. The Astros are only five games back of first place, but the idea of the ball club selling at the trade deadline is not out of the question. Hader could potentially be moved if the Astros do not feel like they can compete.

For now, the focus is on Josh Hader’s return from injury. He will do everything he can to help the Astros turn their season around. First pitch for Tuesday night’s game is scheduled for 8:10 PM EST.