Astros Send 6-Word Message to Yordan Alvarez Before Cubs Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin M. Groe | Last updated Jun 27, 2025 2:49 PM ET

Houston Astros designated hitter Yordan Alvarez has spent the past seven seasons in the majors, establishing himself as one of baseball's most consistent power hitters.

Houston acquired the left-handed bat in August 2016—sending veteran reliever Josh Fields to the Los Angeles Dodgers in exchange for Alvarez, then just an overlooked international prospect in Los Angeles’ system.

Since arriving in Houston, Alvarez has thrived—earning unanimous 2019 AL Rookie of the Year honors, three All-Star selections and the 2021 ALCS MVP for his postseason heroics.

Placed on the 10-day injured list retroactive to May 3 with a right-hand fracture, Alvarez has resumed swing sessions—taking swings off a tee and in batting cages—and the Astros are confident he will return soon, without a minor-league rehab assignment.

With Houston's former star outfielder Kyle Tucker returning to Daikin Park for today’s opener against the Chicago Cubs following an offseason trade, the Astros sent a message to Alvarez before the game.

The team wrote, "Happy birthday to The Big Man!"

Happy birthday to The Big Man! pic.twitter.com/wqWy4ff9e1
— Houston Astros (@astros) June 27, 2025

Looking back at last year, Alvarez was nothing short of incredible. In 147 games he slugged 35 home runs, drove in 86 runs, hit .308 and posted a .959 OPS—numbers that carried Houston’s offense all season.

He wrapped up 2024 with a ninth-place finish in MVP voting as Houston claimed its seventh AL West division title in eight seasons.

In 29 games this season, Alvarez has struggled, hitting just .210 with three home runs in 100 plate appearances. When he returns, Houston will need him at full strength to help reclaim the AL West crown.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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