Yordan Alvarez Expected to Return from Injury

Houston Astros slugger Yordan Alvarez has been placed on the 10-day injured list due to a strained muscle at the top of his right hand, but team officials remain optimistic he will return promptly. Astros manager Joe Espada described the MRI results as good news and expressed hope that Alvarez will only need the minimum rest period. Espada noted that the hand issue may have contributed to Alvarez's unusually slow start at the plate this season, where his statistics have lagged compared to previous years. The Astros, currently struggling offensively, are counting on Alvarez's recovery to reinvigorate their lineup, as he has been a key performer and MVP candidate in recent seasons. Espada believes that after some rest, Alvarez will regain his aggressive hitting approach and help boost the team's performance. In the meantime, other players have filled in for Alvarez as the designated hitter and in the outfield.