3 Astros Players to Watch as Houston Looks to Get Healthy in May

TL;DR

The Houston Astros, struggling with injuries and a 16-25 record, are set to welcome back key players in May. This return is crucial for the team's performance as they aim to improve their standings.

Key points

Houston Astros have a 16-25 record this season
The team is one of the most injury-plagued in baseball
Key players are expected to return in May

Houston Astros

The Houston Astros have been one of the most injury-plagued teams in baseball this season and it has shown in the standings. A trend from last season they were trying to avoid but so far eerily similar.

Sitting at 16-25 through 41 games the Astros desperately need reinforcements.

The good news is that several key players are expected to return this month. Here are three to keep an eye on.

Jeremy Peña: Shortstop

Peña has been on the injured list since April 13 with a Grade 1 right hamstring strain and his return is more crucial than ever. With Carlos Correa now out for the season after suffering a torn ankle tendon Houston needs Peña back in the lineup. The 2025 All-Star was working toward running the bases in Cincinnati this weekend which would be the final hurdle before a minor league rehab assignment. A mid-May return looks realistic and would be a massive boost to the lineup and infield defense.

Josh Hader: Closer

Hader has been dealing with left biceps tendinitis since the start of spring training and was transferred to the 60-day IL on April 17. The earliest he can return is May 24 and that is currently the target. He already made his first rehab appearance with Triple-A Sugar Land and reportedly seems to be getting right back on track. His velocity is trending in the right direction and he has several more rehab outings planned before stepping back on the major league mound. Bryan Abreu has held things together in the closer role but there is no replacing what Hader brings to the back of the bullpen. Especially when the bullpen has been overused frequently.