HOUSTON, TX — The start of the 2023 MLB season has not quite been what the defending world champs hoped for so far this year. The Houston Astros sit at 12-10 and in second place in the AL West behind the new-look Texas Rangers. The biggest reason for the slow start is the absence of their All-Star second baseman, Jose Altuve.
Altuve missed the first 22 games of the 2023 season so far because of an injury suffered in this year’s World Baseball Classic. Altuve represented Venezuela during the classic and suffered a right-broken thumb on a pitch while batting during Venezuela’s 9-7 quarterfinal loss to the United States.
The eight-time All-Star and the 2017 American League MVP fell after he was struck by a 95.9 mph sinker from Colorado reliever Daniel Bard in the fifth inning. Altuve grimaced as he walked off with an athletic trainer.
However, good news for Astros fans on Monday, as reinforcements could be inbound for Dusty Baker and company. Houston’s General Manager Dana Brown CBS Sports Jim Bowden states that Altuve is “ahead of schedule” in rehab. Altuve will receive an X-ray on the thumb in just under two weeks, in which he will be re-evaluated for a potential return. Altuve underwent thumb surgery after the injury and was initially expected to be out through at least the end of May.
While Mauricio Dubon, the replacement second baseman, rides a 17-game hit streak, Altuve’s return will help the Astros. Dubon has plenty of experience in the outfield, with 130 appearances on his resume. The Astros might not rush Altuve’s return, but the future Hall of Famer takes Houston’s potent offense to an incredibly dangerous one. The 33-year-old tallied 28 home runs and a .921 OPS last season and should provide an immediate boost to the Astros when he’s back.
Houston Astros Jose Altuve
(Credit: mlb.com/astros)
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