Astros' Yordan Alvarez: Returns to lineup, as expected
Rotowire
Alvarez (thumb) will start at designated hitter and bat third in Wednesday's Grapefruit League game against the Mets, Matt Kawahara of the Houston Chronicle reports.
Alvarez had to be scratched from Tuesday's lineup due to right thumb soreness, but it will be just a one-day absence. The slugger has yet to get going this spring, sporting a .493 OPS with one home run.
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Astros' Yordan Alvarez: Scratched with sore thumb
Rotowire
Alvarez was scratched from Tuesday's Grapefruit League lineup versus the Nationals due to right thumb soreness, Chandler Rome of The Athletic reports.
Alvarez banged up the thumb during batting practice Sunday, and while he played in the game that day, he arrived at the park Tuesday with some discomfort. Astros manager Joe Espada expects Alvarez to be ready to play Wednesday against the Mets.
The Astros plan to rarely use Alvarez in left field this season, Matt Kawahara of the Houston Chronicle reports.
Alvarez played 53 games in left field in 2024, a number that manager Joe Espada wants to reduce in 2025. That plan has been made clear by the likely shift of Jose Altuve into left field, though there are still question marks with Jake Meyers and Chas McCormick in center and right field, respectively. Espada's hand could be forced if that duo underperforms again, but Alvarez's lengthy history of knee injuries is clearly on the mind of the team.
Astros' Yordan Alvarez: Ready to roll for spring training
Rotowire
Alvarez said Thursday that he is 100 percent healthy heading into the 2025 season, Ari Alexander of KPRC 2 Houston reports.
Alvarez disclosed that he injured his right knee toward the end of the 2024 season. He originally thought he might need surgery to correct the issue, though he ultimately rested and is now fully recovered. Alvarez reports that he is ready to hit and field for the start of spring training.
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