The Houston Astros are hoping that they dodged a bullet on Friday evening while taking on the Philadelphia Phillies in Grapefruit League action.
After experiencing the potential loss of starting pitcher Jose Urquidy, the Astros can't afford to lose anyone else to injury long term.
During the second inning of the MLB Spring Training game, Yordan Alvarez, easily Houston's biggest superstar, exited the game. This occurred after he fouled a ball off his right foot while up to bat.
Local reports from The Athletic suggest he didn't look to be in any pain while exiting, however any exit is worrying.
It could just be a prudent move from the coaching and training staff in order to evaluate and protect Alvarez from any further injury. After all, it's just spring training and there is very little need for him to be out there, even if it is just a bruised foot.
Alvarez is once again expected to be in the running to compete for the American League MVP award during the 2024 MLB season. The slugger is the key piece in the Astros lineup and will play a large role if Houston hopes to achieve another American League West title and keep the Texas Rangers at bay.
In 2023, Alvarez slashed .293/.407/583 with 31 home runs and finished 13th in the AL MVP race.
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