The Houston Astros have encountered multiple injuries recently, compelling the team to navigate the challenges of limited player availability as they advance toward the All-Star break. Among those sidelined is designated hitter and left fielder Yordan Alvarez, who has been out since May 2 due to a minor fracture in his right hand. Outfielder Chas McCormick also remains on the injured list with a left oblique strain, last playing on May 31.
The situation worsened when shortstop Jeremy Peña sustained a fracture to his left ribcage after being hit by a pitch on June 27, resulting in his placement on the 10-day injured list. With Peña and Alvarez contributing significantly earlier in the season, their absences pose challenges as Houston prepares for a critical segment of the schedule.
Yordan Alvarez Expected to Resume Play Soon as Astros Maintain Momentum
Despite missing Alvarez’s presence, the Astros have maintained competitive form, winning seven out of their last ten games. Their overall record stands at 50-34, placing them second in the American League and just 2.5 games behind the Detroit Tigers, who lead the league. The team also enjoys a six-game edge over the Seattle Mariners in the AL West as of July 1, 2025.
Nevertheless, losing Peña, a vital offensive and defensive contributor, complicates Houston’s pursuit of divisional and league success. Peña has been the Astros’ most reliable hitter, boasting a .322 batting average complemented by 11 home runs and 15 stolen bases so far this year. While his RBI totals remain unspecified, his impact on the lineup is undisputed.
Alvarez has struggled offensively in 2025 before his injury, batting just .210 with three home runs and 18 RBIs in a limited number of games. Despite these numbers, his power-hitting capability remains an asset the Astros are eager to reintegrate into the lineup as soon as possible.
General manager Dana Brown shared an update regarding Alvarez’s recovery progress, indicating that his return might happen soon given ongoing improvements.
Astros GM Dana Brown when asked yesterday about Yordan Alvarez’s return: “If things go well, it could be next homestand. I haven’t ruled out potentially flying him to L.A. at some point this weekend. That’s an outside chance. That’s very optimistic. … I don’t think he needs…
— Brian McTaggart (@brianmctaggart) July 1, 2025
Brown’s remarks suggest a possible comeback before the All-Star festivities, though the exact timing remains tentative. The upcoming Astros home schedule starts on July 7 against the Cleveland Guardians and includes a series versus the Texas Rangers, which could offer a suitable setting for Alvarez’s return.
Conversely, Houston’s road games this week against the Colorado Rockies and Los Angeles Dodgers likely do not coincide with Alvarez’s readiness unless his rehabilitation notably accelerates. He resumed batting practice on June 24 and participated in 25 swings at the cage the following Saturday. Due to his slow start this season, the Astros may opt for a rehabilitation assignment in the minor leagues to help him regain timing and confidence prior to full reintegration.
Returning Players Will Be Crucial as Astros Prepare for Second Half Challenges
Restoring both Alvarez and Peña to the active roster would be a notable boost for Houston heading into the season’s second half. The team holds a strong position in the AL West; however, injuries have forced adjustments to their strategy and lineup consistency. Peña’s prompt recovery is particularly important, given his key role atop the batting order and defensive duties.
The Astros have six remaining games against the Mariners this year, including a key series in Seattle immediately following the All-Star break. These matchups are expected to be pivotal in determining the division winner, especially if Houston’s roster does not return to full strength. The team will need to manage player health carefully to maximize their chances of maintaining lead in a competitive division battle.