Hader hopeful he can pitch in postseason after shoulder injury

Houston Astros closer Josh Hader doesn't expect to pitch again in the regular season while he recovers from a left shoulder capsule sprain.

Hader, who was shut down Friday for three weeks, said it will take him another three weeks to build up after not throwing, according to Brian McTaggart of MLB.com.

However, the six-time All-Star is hopeful he can return for the postseason in a one-inning role, per Chandler Rome of The Athletic.

Astros manager Joe Espada said last week that the left-hander will seek a second opinion on his injury before determining next steps.

Hader has been a big piece for the AL West-leading Astros, authoring a 2.05 ERA with 27 saves and 13.0 K/9 over 48 appearances this season.

Houston owns a half-game lead over the Seattle Mariners for top spot in the division.