The Houston Astros weren't able to secure their fourth straight AL West title on Monday when they lost to their division rival Seattle Mariners in the opener of their three-game series.
One win in their next two contests will secure a spot in the playoffs, but the biggest news surrounding this Astros team right now pertains to the injury status of their star Yordan Alvarez.
The slugger left Sunday's game early when he was grabbing his knee following his hard slide into second base. X-rays revealed just inflammation in that knee, but they were waiting for MRI results he underwent on Monday to determine if their was structural damage.
Manager Joe Espada certainly didn't make it seem like Houston would get Alvarez back, classifying him as "not good."
Fortunately, the Astros did get a positive update regarding their slugger.
Per Chandler Rome of The Athletic, Alvarez has been diagnosed with a right knee sprain following the MRI, and although he's going to miss the remainder of this Mariners matchup, he could be back before the regular season ends.
"We have to give this some time here and see how he feels the next couple of days. If there's a chance for him to come back in the regular season, it's good news," Espada said.
This will continue to be something the team has to monitor.
Knee issues have plagued Alvarez during his short career, resulting in him getting arthroscopic surgery on both of his knees back in 2020.
Houston should be able to lock up the division without their star slugger in the lineup, but if they are going to win the World Series, they will certainly need him healthy and available.
There's a chance the Astros hold him out until he is 100% ready to return, not risking further injury by having him play meaningless regular season games.
Alvarez's Injury History and Concerns for the Playoffs
Alvarez's injury history is a cause for concern as he has a history of knee issues. The Astros are hoping that this is just a minor sprain and that he will be able to return to action soon. However, they will need to be careful with him as they prepare for the playoffs.
The Astros have a lot of talented players, but they are a much better team when Alvarez is in the lineup. He is a dangerous hitter who can change the game with one swing of the bat. He is also a valuable defensive player in left field.
If Alvarez is unable to play in the playoffs, it will be a major blow to the Astros' chances of winning the World Series. They will need to find a way to replace his production at the plate and in the field.
The Astros' Lineup Without Alvarez
The Astros are a deep team, but they will need to adjust their lineup if Alvarez is unable to play. They will need to find a way to replace his production at the plate and in the field.
One option is to move Jason Heyward to left field and use Mauricio Dubón as the designated hitter. Another option is to use Victor Caratini at first base and have Jon Singleton serve as the designated hitter.
The Astros have a lot of options, but they will need to find the right combination of players to fill the void left by Alvarez.
What's Next for Alvarez and the Astros?
The Astros will need to keep a close eye on Alvarez's progress. They will need to make sure that he is fully healed before he returns to action. They cannot afford to risk further injury, especially with the playoffs just around the corner.
The Astros have a chance to win the World Series this year. However, they will need Alvarez to be healthy and available if they want to reach their ultimate goal. The next few weeks will be critical for both Alvarez and the Astros.
The Slugger Will Look to Come Back for the Wild-Card Round
The Astros are optimistic that Alvarez will be able to return to the lineup for the Wild Card round, but they are not going to rush him back.
Alvarez will continue to rehab in Houston and the team will monitor his progress. They will make a decision on his status for the playoffs based on how he is feeling and how he is progressing.
The Astros have a lot of options, but they will need to find the right combination of players to fill the void left by Alvarez.
The Astros have a chance to win the World Series this year. However, they will need Alvarez to be healthy and available if they want to reach their ultimate goal. The next few weeks will be critical for both Alvarez and the Astros.
