Astros' Yordan Alvarez Dodges Bullet With Recent MRI Update

Fortunately for Houston supporters, Alvarez was informed on Wednesday that the recent MRI on his hand showed a strain—and nothing more serious. He is expected to return to the team some time next week.

Naturally, Astros manager Joe Espada took the medical update related to his All-Star designated hitter quite well. "We look at it as good news," Espada told the media. 

With Alvarez' IL stint technically commencing on May 3, he'll likely be available for Houston's approaching "Silver Boot Series" against the Texas Rangers.

Alvarez suffered a similar ailment in 2022 (the year in which he won his lone World Series ring), and it should be noted that his current strain is on his right hand again. 

As a lefty batter, Alvarez' bottom/action hand is the one affected. However, keep in mind that he throws right handed, so don't expect to see him patrolling the outfield any time soon (he's played only six games in left field this season).

Houston hopes a rejuvenated Alvarez will emerge from his rest and recovery. Not only are the 'Stros sputtering (by their standards) behind an 18-18 record, but Yordan has not been himself at the plate.

Throughout exactly 100 at bats in 2025, Alvarez showcases a grueling .210 batting average to go along with his .279 weighted on-base percentage. If the campaign were to conclude today, both of those offensive clips would be egregious career lows for the three-time All-Star.

Despite Houston's 9-1 victory over the Milwaukee Brewers on Wednesday, the Astros hold a .676 team OPS; that's good enough for 23rd in the majors.

After splitting their past 10 games, Houston will resume action on Friday, May 9 by hosting the Cincinnati Reds. Nick Martinez and Hunter Brown are the projected starters.