Houston Astros closer Josh Hader has been placed on the 15-day injured list with a left shoulder strain after feeling discomfort during warm-ups. The setback came just days after a high-stress, two-inning outing. For fans, it’s a blow to the bullpen. For athletes of all levels, it’s a reminder that overuse and fatigue can lead to injury even without a dramatic “pop” or fall.
What is a shoulder strain?
A strain means that muscle fibers or their attaching tendons have been overstretched or partially torn. In pitchers, this often involves the rotator cuff muscles, which help stabilize and move the shoulder. While Hader’s imaging results haven’t been released, most “shoulder strains” in throwers range from mild (Grade 1) to moderate (Grade 2).
Possible recovery timelines
- Mild strain (Grade 1) – Often 2–4 weeks with rest, anti-inflammatory care, and progressive rehab.
- Moderate strain (Grade 2) – May require 4–8 weeks before a return to full throwing.
- Severe strain (Grade 3) – Rare in this setting, but can take months and sometimes requires surgery.
What this means for you
You don’t have to throw 98 mph to develop a shoulder strain. Weekend softball players, weightlifters, pickleball enthusiasts, and even people doing repetitive overhead work can experience similar injuries.
The key to a faster recovery is early evaluation and identifying the problem before it worsens.
A tailored rehab plan can restore strength, protect against re-injury, and get you back to the activities you love, whether that’s closing out a big game or lifting your grandchild without pain.
