Jose Altuve believes the 2025 MLB season could mark a strong comeback for the Houston Astros, as they look to rebound from their disappointing postseason performance last year, where they failed to advance past the Wild Card Series. Adding to Altuve’s optimism is the presence of one of the most dominant pitchers in baseball history on the team’s roster.
According to statistics shared by Codify, Altuve’s teammate, Josh Hader, holds the record for the lowest batting average allowed in MLB history among pitchers with at least 250 innings pitched. Hader, who joined the Astros bullpen in 2024, has proven himself to be a force on the mound.
To reach that historic pedestal in baseball, Hader had to go through a long journey, facing 1,800 batters throughout his career, which ultimately resulted in them batting just .158 against him.
Last season, Hader delivered solid results with a 3.80 ERA over 71 games—the highest number of appearances in his career since debuting in 2017. He also achieved career highs with eight wins, though he matched that total with eight losses.
HOUSTON, TEXAS – OCTOBER 02: Josh Hader #71 of the Houston Astros delivers a pitch against the Detroit Tigers in the eighth inning during Game Two of the Wild Card Series at Minute Maid Park on October 02, 2024 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Alex Slitz/Getty Images)
Hader is a key pitcher for the Astros
Since his arrival, everyone has spoken highly of him. Joe Spada admitted in March of last year that Hader added more strength to the team’s bullpen: “He has really brought a different edge to a team that already has an edge, a team that already wants to win.”
It’s not just about the statistics; Hader proved last year that the Astros need a player like him to help with the defense, alongside Altuve, who also does his job in the infield or outfield.
Hader’s projection for the 2025 season
According to Baseball Reference, Hader could have another solid year with the Astros, posting an ERA over 3.80, 66 innings pitched, 50 hits allowed, and 29 runs allowed, with about 84 hits surrendered, and an approximate record of 5-5.
