MLB Makes Yordan Alvarez Announcement on Tuesday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Jan 20, 2026 6:01 PM ET

The Houston Astros’ 2025 season was forgettable, as the team collapsed in September and missed out on the MLB playoffs, ending a run of eight consecutive postseason appearances.

However, there is still reason for optimism heading into the 2026 campaign. Houston made notable reinforcements this winter, particularly adding Japanese starting pitcher Tatsuya Imai to the rotation, and left-handed slugger Yordan Alvarez is expected to return healthy.

Alvarez missed a substantial amount of time last year while dealing with both a fractured right hand and a left ankle sprain, the latter ultimately ending his season.

In an injury-riddled year, the Cuban superstar still managed a .273 batting average, .367 on-base percentage, .797 OPS, six home runs and 27 RBIs across just 48 games.

Houston Astros designated hitter Yordan Alvarez (44)© Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

Despite the disappointing season, Alvarez has continued to be recognized for the talent he brings to the game.

Each year, MLB Network announces its Top 100 Players Right Now list, and Alvarez was featured once again, placing at No. 28 despite appearing in fewer than 50 games in 2025. He did fall 21 spots from his No. 7 ranking in 2025, but evaluators clearly believe he has the ability to return to top-10 status in 2026.

Being included on the list remains an honor, and MLB highlighted Alvarez in a post on X this Tuesday, showcasing his placement among the league’s elite.

New @Dodgers teammates Kyle Tucker and Freddie Freeman rank back-to-back as @MLBNetwork’s #Top100RightNow rolls on with Nos. 30-21. pic.twitter.com/3zOT4ESgDO
— MLB (@MLB) January 20, 2026

There is plenty of reason Alvarez deserves to be on the list thanks to his impressive track record. Since debuting for the Astros in 2019, the 28-year-old has solidified himself as one of the most feared hitters in baseball. He dominated big league pitching immediately, taking home American League Rookie of the Year honors.

Over seven seasons, Alvarez has collected three All-Star selections and a Silver Slugger Award, while also thriving in October. He won ALCS MVP honors and helped lead Houston to a World Series title in 2022 over the Philadelphia Phillies, cementing his reputation as a clutch performer.

Fortunately for the Astros, Alvarez will remain under team control for three more seasons. Given his production and importance to the franchise, it would be wise for the front office to explore securing him to a long-term deal.

Healthy and motivated, Alvarez represents Houston’s best chance to return to the postseason and reestablish itself as a contender in 2026.

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

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