The Houston Astros’ slugger Yordan Alvarez is expected to return from the 60-day injured list as soon as this weekend, according to general manager Dana Brown. The 28-year-old outfielder, sidelined since May 5 with a small fracture in his right hand, is more likely to resume playing during Houston’s upcoming 10-game homestand starting August 26, offering a critical offensive boost down the stretch.

Rehab Stint Begins with Double-A Corpus Christi

Alvarez will begin his rehab assignment on Tuesday with the Double-A Corpus Christi Hooks, marking his first game action since his injury. The Astros have planned a concise rehab schedule, designating Alvarez as the team’s designated hitter for Tuesday’s game, granting him a day of rest Wednesday, then positioning him to participate in back-to-back games Thursday and Friday. Following these appearances, the team will reassess his readiness for a full return.

Outlook on Alvarez’s Return and Impact

While there is a possibility Alvarez could rejoin the Astros roster for the late games in Baltimore this weekend, the current expectation is that he remains in Texas until next week before officially reentering the major league lineup. Though his power might be slightly diminished initially as he recovers from the hand injury, his presence is anticipated to significantly enhance Houston’s offense during the critical final stretch of the season.