Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
Jose Altuve was held out of the Houston Astros’ lineup on Sunday against the Cincinnati Reds, a day after exiting early with right hamstring tightness.
Altuve played just two innings in Saturday night’s 13-9 loss in Cincinnati before being replaced by a pinch-hitter in the third. He had drawn a walk in the first inning and advanced from first to third on a single by Isaac Paredes. With Houston already trailing 12-1, manager Joe Espada opted to remove the veteran second baseman turned outfielder.
Following the game, Espada told reporters that there was no immediate update on Altuve’s condition but confirmed the issue was hamstring tightness. On Sunday, MLB.com’s Brian McTaggart reported that Altuve “feels better” but is still experiencing discomfort. The 35-year-old remains day-to-day, and the team will monitor his status closely before making any further decisions.
In Altuve’s absence, Zach Dezenzo shifted to left field while Cam Smith got the start in right for Sunday’s series finale.
ALSO READ: Why Should Rafael Devers Be the One to Move, Again?
The Astros will hope to have their three-time batting champion back in the lineup soon, though they’re proceeding cautiously as he continues to recover. The 2022 World Series winners are 19-19 into the 2025 season, and will take on the 20-21 Cincinnati Reds in the series finale on Sunday. The Astros lead 2-1.