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Houston Astros
Aug 26, 2025 6:34 PM EDT
The Houston Astros hold sole possession of first place in the AL West despite missing the offensive presence of left-handed slugger Yordan Alvarez since May 2.
The 28-year-old designated hitter has been sidelined with a fractured right hand and experienced multiple setbacks, including inflammation, leading to a frustrating recovery that delayed his return.
After a brief rehab stint in the minor leagues, Alvarez is set to return on Tuesday in a home matchup against the Colorado Rockies.
This comes at a crucial time for Houston, as their divisional lead has been cut to just 1.5 games over the second-place Seattle Mariners.
Houston Astros left fielder Yordan Alvarez (44)
Houston Astros left fielder Yordan Alvarez (44) — Source: © Erik Williams-Imagn Images
Alvarez Addresses Frustration Ahead of Comeback
Ahead of his return, Alvarez spoke with reporters pregame and addressed how difficult it was to be sidelined for so long.
“It’s been very frustrating for me. I got the injury early in the year and never did I think it was going to take this much time to heal. But that’s stuff that happens in life,” Alvarez said.
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MVP-Caliber Bat Returns to Houston Lineup
Alvarez’s return immediately inserts an AL MVP candidate back into the heart of the Astros’ lineup—arguably a bigger addition than any player moved at the trade deadline.
Over the course of his seven-year career, Alvarez has built a resume worthy of Hall of Fame consideration:
2019 American League Rookie of the Year
3× All-Star
1× Silver Slugger
2× Top 10 AL MVP finish
ALCS MVP
2022 World Series Champion
4× 30+ home run seasons
With Alvarez back, Houston’s lineup regains one of the most feared left-handed bats in baseball—just in time for the stretch run.
About the Author
Gavin Groe
Trending News Writer, Athlon Sports
Gavin Groe is a contributing writer to the Athlon Sports trending and breaking news team.