Houston Astros near return of pitcher Cristian Javier and closer Josh Hader

Manager Joe Espada said the Astros could have closer Josh Hader back for the series against the Pirates that begins Tuesday in Houston. Hader, who missed the start of the season with left‑biceps tendinitis, made his ninth minor‑league rehab appearance and is expected to be ready.

Second baseman José Altuve is also close to returning after a grade‑2 left‑oblique strain; Espada noted he may face live pitching soon. Pitcher Cristian Javier, sidelined by a grade‑2 shoulder sprain since early April, is slated for his first minor‑league rehab start on Wednesday with Double‑A Corpus Christi, with Espada praising his recent batting‑practice work at 91‑92 mph. Another right‑hander, Hunter Brown, will rehab on Thursday. The Astros have won seven of their last nine games and hope the returning players will bolster their roster.