Astros Optimistic on Alvarez, McCormick Injury Returns

The Houston Astros are leading the American League West despite injuries to key players Yordan Alvarez and Chas McCormick. Alvarez, sidelined for nearly two months with a hand injury, is reportedly making progress and could return as soon as the next homestand or during the upcoming series against the Dodgers, according to GM Dana Brown. McCormick is rehabbing from an oblique injury and has started a Triple-A assignment at Sugar Land, signaling a possible return soon. The Astros have maintained their strong record by integrating replacements such as veteran utility infielder Zack Short, recently promoted from Triple-A. While there are concerns about Alvarez's long-term health and its potential impact on the team's trade deadline plans, management remains optimistic about his recovery. The team's resilience and adaptability have been crucial to their ongoing success this season.