Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Astros Share Concerning Injury Update After Jose Altuve News

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jake Elman | Last updated Mar 6, 2025 8:16 AM ET

Houston Astros manager Joe Espada recently solved one lineup question when he moved veteran second baseman Jose Altuve to left field.

Unfortunately for Espada, he now has another problem on his hands.

Astros first baseman Christian Walker missed Wednesday’s 6-5 victory over the St. Louis Cardinals with left oblique soreness. The same injury cost Walker over a month last year.

“It’s something I don’t want to see right now,” Espada said, according to the Astros’ official website. “I’m just hoping for the best.”

The Astros can’t afford to lose Walker, who signed a three-year, $60 million contract in December. The three-time Gold Glove winner averaged 32 home runs, 94 RBI, and a .813 OPS for the Arizona Diamondbacks the last three years.

Walker unofficially began his Astros career in style this spring. He’s gone 4-for-8 with three doubles and a 1.475 OPS for the defending AL West champions.

Houston added Walker to replace Jon Singleton as the Astros’ starting first baseman. However, Walker’s sudden injury could throw a wrench into things and give Singleton his job back.

Singleton, a former top prospect, mashed 13 home runs in 119 games last year. The 33-year-old reported to spring training down 25 pounds, though the new look hasn’t immediately translated to success; Singleton is only 2-for-17 thus far.

Jon Singleton, who went nearly 8 years between @MLB plate appearances, just hit his first career Yankee Stadium home run — and it reached the third deck. Remarkable journey for him and his family. @MLBNetwork @Astros pic.twitter.com/zHs7b6mE6B
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) May 9, 2024

Astros reporter Brian McTaggart reported the club could also use Zach Dezenzo at first base. Dezenzo hit .242 with two home runs and eight RBI last year.

However, Dezenzo lacks plate discipline and struck out 22 times in 65 plate appearances.

As of Thursday morning, the Astros had not announced if Walker will undergo an MRI.

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

More must-reads: