"Set-up man Bryan Abreu, he of a 1.67 ERA and 13.1 strikeouts per nine innings, is the most obvious option to take closing duties in Hader's absence. Nothing behind Abreu is as settled, meaning Espada may take a matchup-based approach before handing the ball to his substitute closer," he wrote.

Houston Astros All-Star closer Josh Hader was placed on the 15-day injured list Tuesday with a strained left shoulder. The move, retroactive to Monday, comes after the left-hander reported shoulder discomfort before Monday's game against the Boston Red Sox.

With Josh Hader potentially missing extended time, the Houston Astros could look to the rival Los Angeles Angels for their stopgap closer.