Full Breakdown
Houston Astros' Bennett Sousa to Start Season on Injured List
3/21/2026, 1:34:22 AM
Injury Details and Impact on the Team
Houston Astros left-hander Bennett Sousa will begin the 2026 MLB season on the injured list due to a strained left oblique. Manager Joe Espada announced that Sousa sustained the injury during a Grapefruit League game against the Washington Nationals. Following the incident, Sousa returned to Houston for further evaluation, and Espada indicated that Sousa would "be down for a while," emphasizing that the team would refrain from allowing him to throw until the pain subsides.
Sousa, 30, had a promising 2025 season, appearing in 44 games and achieving a 2.84 ERA over 50 innings, with 59 strikeouts. However, his previous season was marred by injury, as he was placed on the injured list on August 20, 2025, due to left elbow inflammation and did not return to play.
Broader Implications for the Astros' Bullpen
The loss of Sousa adds to the challenges facing the Astros' bullpen as they prepare for the upcoming season. In addition to Sousa's injury, All-Star closer Josh Hader is also set to begin the season on the 15-day injured list. Hader has not participated in any spring training games, and his recovery timeline will extend beyond the Astros' season opener against the Los Angeles Angels on March 26.
Official Statements & Responses
Manager Joe Espada stated, "We're going to not have him throw until that pain goes away," highlighting the team's cautious approach to Sousa's recovery. The Astros are navigating a difficult start to the season with key players sidelined.
Criticism & Opposition
While the Astros organization has not publicly faced criticism regarding Sousa's injury management, the situation raises concerns among fans and analysts about the team's depth in the bullpen. The absence of both Sousa and Hader could significantly impact the team's performance in the early part of the season.
What's Next
As the Astros prepare for their season opener, the focus will be on the recovery timelines for both Sousa and Hader. The team will need to assess its bullpen options and potentially make adjustments to their roster to compensate for these injuries. The upcoming games will be critical in determining how the Astros adapt to these challenges.
