Houston Astros Transactions
Saturday, January 14
| TEAM | PLAYER | TRANSACTION |
|---|---|---|
 |  | The Houston Astros and left-handed starting pitcher Framber Valdez agreed on a one-year, $6.8 million deal on Friday to avoid salary arbitration. Valdez was excellent in his fifth season with the Astros and earned his first All-Star selection. He finished the year 17-6 with a 2.82 ERA (3.06 FIP), 1.16 WHIP and 23.5 percent strikeout rate in 31 starts. Valdez led the league with three complete games, one shutout, 201 1/3 innings pitched, 827 batters faced and 0.5 home runs allowed per nine innings. The 29-year-old southpaw was absolutely dominant in Houston's run to another World Series championship as well. He'll enter the 2023 season as an SP2 for fantasy managers. |
Tuesday, January 03
| TEAM | PLAYER | TRANSACTION |
|---|---|---|
|  | The Houston Astros acquired outfielder Bligh Madris from the Detroit Tigers on Tuesday in exchange for cash considerations. Madris will be put on the team's 40-man roster, which now sits at 39 players. The 26-year-old made his major-league debut in 2022 with the Pittsburgh Pirates, playing in 39 games and hitting just .177/.244/.265 with a .509 OPS, one home runs, seven RBI, 10 runs scored and two stolen bases in 123 plate appearances. He was designated for assignment by the Tigers around two weeks ago and now finds his way to Houston, where he'll serve as organizational outfield depth in 2023. Madris could see time in the big leagues next season, but he'll likely be in the minors for the Astros. |
Monday, December 19
| TEAM | PLAYER | TRANSACTION |
|---|---|---|
|  | The Houston Astros re-signed outfielder Michael Brantley to a one-year deal worth $12 million on Sunday. The contract includes $4 million in performance bonuses. Brantley only played in 64 games in 2022, missing the final three-plus months of the season due to a right shoulder injury that required labrum surgery in August. The 35-year-old is still working his way back from the surgery and isn't a lock to be ready for spring training or Opening Day, so fantasy managers need to bake that risk into his 2023 value. When healthy, Brantley is one of the best contact hitters in the game, but he doesn't pack a lot of power (only two 20-plus-homer seasons). The five-time All-Star hit .300 in four straight seasons before 2022. He had a .288/.370/.416 with five homers, 26 RBI and 28 runs scored in his 64 games played for Houston before his injury. |
Monday, November 28
| TEAM | PLAYER | TRANSACTION |
|---|---|---|
|  | According to a tweet from USA Today's Bob Nightengale on Monday, the Houston Astros are reportedly "finalizing a deal for" Jose Abreu. According to the Houston Chronicle's Chandler Rome, the deal is expected to be for three years and around $20 million per year. Nightengale tweeted the following on Monday morning: "The Houston #Astros are finalizing a deal for free-agent first baseman Jose Abreu." The slugger hit .304 last season in 679 plate appearances for the Chicago White Sox, adding 15 home runs and a strong .378 on-base percentage in those 679 plate appearances. He'll give the Astros yet another quality lineup option alongside the likes of Yordan Alvarez, Alex Bregman, Kyle Tucker, Jose Altuve, and Jeremy Pena. |
Tuesday, November 22
| TEAM | PLAYER | TRANSACTION |
|---|---|---|
|  | The Houston Astros have signed infielder Dixon Machado to a minor-league deal according to the team's official transaction log. Also, per the Astros' official transaction log, the American League West club invited him to spring training. Machado appeared in 17 games for the San Francisco Giants last season, collecting three hits, a walk, and a run scored. He hit .291 with a .372 on-base percentage, six home runs, and 10 stolen bases in 522 plate appearances split between the Triple-A affiliates for the Giants and Chicago Cubs. He'll provide the Astros with some infield depth in 2023 after returning starters Jose Altuve, Alex Bregman, and Jeremy Pena. |
Thursday, November 17
| TEAM | PLAYER | TRANSACTION |
|---|---|---|
|  | The Houston Astros signed left-hander Austin Davis to a minor-league deal on Wednesday that includes an invitation to major-league spring training. Davis was designated for assignment by the Minnesota Twins in September and elected free agency, and now he'll join the Astros before the 2023 season. The 29-year-old southpaw spent most of the 2022 campaign with the Boston Red Sox, posting a 5.47 ERA (3.94 FIP), a 1.56 WHIP, 61 strikeouts and 29 walks in 54 1/3 innings over 50 appearances (three starts). Davis will serve as left-handed relief depth for the World Series championship heading into the 2023 regular season. |
Saturday, November 12
| TEAM | PLAYER | TRANSACTION |
|---|---|---|
|  | The Houston Astros re-signed relief pitcher Rafael Montero to a three-year deal worth $34.5 million on Saturday. Montero became one of the best high-leverage relief arms in the game in 2022, posting a 2.37 ERA (2.64 FIP), a 1.02 WHIP, a career-high 14 saves and 73 strikeouts in 68 1/3 innings pitched in 71 relief outings during the regular season for the Astros. The 32-year-old right-hander was even better in helping the Astros win the World Series, as he allowed only two earned runs on five hits while walking six and striking out 10 in 9 1/3 innings in the postseason. Montero could see saves again in 2023, but he'll open the year as a high-end setup man ahead of closer Ryan Pressly, still giving him plenty of fantasy appeal. |
Monday, November 07
| TEAM | PLAYER | TRANSACTION |
|---|---|---|
|  | X-rays confirmed that Houston Astros third baseman Alex Bregman (finger) suffered a broken left index finger while sliding into second base in the eighth inning of Game 6 of the World Series against the Philadelphia Phillies on Saturday. Bregman won't need surgery, but he'll face an eight-week recovery after winning the World Series. Fantasy managers shouldn't need to worry heading into the 2023 season, as Bregman will be ready for spring training. The 28-year-old stayed in for the rest of the series-clinching win on Saturday night and went 1-for-3 with a walk, run scored and strikeout in the 4-1 win. Bregman went 15-for-51 (.294) with five doubles, three home runs, 11 RBI, seven runs scored, six walks and six strikeouts in 13 postseason games en route to another championship ring. |
Friday, October 21
| TEAM | PLAYER | TRANSACTION |
|---|---|---|
|  | Houston Astros right-hander Lance McCullers Jr. (elbow) said he got hit on the elbow bone by a spare champagne bottle during the celebration after winning the American League Division Series over the Seattle Mariners, which is why he's being pushed back to Game 4 of the AL Championship Series against the New York Yankees on Sunday. He threw a bullpen session on Friday and said everything is fine. In his Game 3 starts in the ALDS against the Mariners, the 29-year-old tossed six shutout innings while walking two and striking out seven. McCullers got a late start to the 2022 season and made only eight starts during the regular season due to injury, so he hasn't faced the Yankees yet this year. |
Tuesday, October 11
| TEAM | PLAYER | TRANSACTION |
|---|---|---|
|  | Houston Astros relief pitcher Phil Maton (hand) is reportedly out for the remainder of the postseason, according to a tweet from The Houston Chronicle's Chandler Rome on Tuesday. Per Rome's tweet, the reliever "fractured the fifth metacarpal in his right pinkie finger after punching his locker in disappointment after his final regular season outing on Wednesday. He had surgery yesterday and is out for the postseason." The right-hander appeared in 67 games for the Astros this season, logging a 3.84 ERA and a 4.33 FIP in 65.2 innings of work. He's also registered 73 strikeouts compared to just 24 walks allowed. What's more, the 29-year-old turned in 14 holds. |
Wednesday, October 05
| TEAM | PLAYER | TRANSACTION |
|---|---|---|
|  | Houston Astros shortstop Jeremy Pena (knee) exited Tuesday's 10-0 win over the Phillies early after fouling a ball off his knee. X-rays were negative, but he will not play in Wednesday's regular-season finale, per MLB.com's Brian McTaggart. The 25-year-old went 2-for-4 with a single, a two-run home run, and a strikeout before exiting. Pena had a solid overall rookie season both for the Astros and from a fantasy perspective, slashing .253/.289/.426 with 22 HR, 63 RBI, and 11 stolen bases in 558 plate appearances. Fantasy managers should get to see some more of him throughout the playoffs. |
Monday, October 03
| TEAM | PLAYER | TRANSACTION |
|---|---|---|
|  | Houston Astros right-hander Josh James (forearm), who has been on the 60-day injured list since June 23 with a right lat strain, underwent surgery on the flexor tendon in his right forearm, and the Astros haven't provided a timetable for his return. James had a setback during his minor league rehab assignment in the middle of last month, and now it's unclear if he'll even be ready for the start of spring training next year. The 29-year-old hasn't pitched at all for the Astros this year after making just five relief appearances in 2021 with a 5.40 ERA (3.77 FIP), a 1.20 WHIP and eight strikeouts in his five innings pitched. |
| | Houston Astros right-hander Lance McCullers Jr. (illness) is lined up to start on Monday against the Philadelphia Phillies after missing his start last Tuesday against the Arizona Diamondbacks due to an unspecified illness. McCullers lost a few pounds but is good to go to kick off the final series of the regular season. It will be a final tune-up for the 29-year-old before the start of the postseason for the Astros in the Division Series. The Astros will be cautious with his usage in his start on Monday, so he'll be a bit more risky for anyone still playing for a fantasy title this week. McCullers has been strong in his seven starts for Houston this year, going 4-1 with a 2.38 ERA (3.40 FIP), a 1.25 WHIP, 45 strikeouts and 21 walks in 41 2/3 frames. |
Friday, September 30
| TEAM | PLAYER | TRANSACTION |
|---|---|---|
|  | Houston Astros outfielder/designated hitter Yordan Alvarez (ankle) is back in the starting lineup on Friday against the Tampa Bay Rays and right-hander Drew Rasmussen, serving as the designated hitter and batting third in the lineup. Alvarez didn't play on Wednesday due to a left ankle injury, but he'll be back in there after the team's off day on Thursday. Fantasy managers will want to get the 25-year-old All-Star slugger back into their lineups for the start of the weekend series against Tampa. He's currently riding a modest four-game hitting streak and has been mashing the ball this month to the tune of a .352 average (25-for-71) with six home runs, 16 RBI and 14 runs scored in 20 games. |
| | Houston Astros starting pitcher Lance McCullers Jr. (illness) is scheduled to throw a bullpen session on Friday at Minute Maid Park, and the tentative plan would be for him to return to the starting rotation on Monday against the Philadelphia Phillies. McCullers was unable to make his last start on Tuesday against the Arizona Diamondbacks due to an illness, but he appears to be recovered and could make one more start next week before the regular season ends. The 28-year-old right-hander has made only seven starts for the Astros this year due to injury, but he's been good in those starts, going 4-1 with a 2.38 ERA (3.40 FIP), a 1.25 WHIP, 45 strikeouts and 21 walks in 41 2/3 frames. |
Wednesday, September 28
| TEAM | PLAYER | TRANSACTION |
|---|---|---|
| | Houston Astros outfielder/designated hitter Yordan Alvarez (ankle) exited Tuesday's 10-2 win over the Diamondbacks in the fifth inning with left ankle discomfort, per AT&T SportsNet's Julia Morales. Alvarez went 1-for-2 with a single and a strikeout before being replaced by David Hensley. The good news is that manager Dusty Baker said after the game that X-rays came back negative and that Alvarez should be ready to play again in a few days. This is huge for fantasy managers, as he has slashed an impressive .304/.407/.614 with 37 home runs and 96 RBI this season. |
| | Houston Astros outfielder/designated hitter Yordan Alvarez (ankle) is not in the starting lineup on Wednesday against the Arizona Diamondbacks. Alvarez departed Tuesday's game early due to a left ankle injury, but the good news is his X-rays came back negative. Fantasy managers should consider the 25-year-old left-handed slugger as day-to-day for now. The Astros will want him fully healthy for the start of the postseason, so don't be surprised if he sits out at least a few days. There's a chance he could be ready to go for the start of a series against the Tampa Bay Rays on Friday after an off day Thursday. Christian Vazquez is serving as the designated hitter and is batting fifth, while Chas McCormick is in left field and hitting seventh against Diamondbacks right-hander Zac Gallen. |
Tuesday, September 27
| TEAM | PLAYER | TRANSACTION |
|---|---|---|
| | Houston Astros rookie shortstop Jeremy Pena (face) is back at shortstop and is hitting second in the batting order on Tuesday against the Arizona Diamondbacks and right-hander Zach Davies. Pena will return to the lineup after leaving the game early on Saturday with a facial abrasion. With an off day on Monday, the 25-year-old will only end up missing one game. Pena has cooled off at the plate since earlier this year, but he's still been more than passable as a fantasy option in mixed leagues in his first MLB season. He's batting .247/.285/.408 with 19 home runs, 55 RBI, 68 runs scored and 11 stolen bases in his 493 at-bats. In September, he's hitting .253 (22-for-87) with three homers, 10 RBI, 14 runs and four stolen bases in his 22 games. |
| | Houston Astros right-hander Lance McCullers Jr. (illness) was scratched from his scheduled start on Tuesday against the Arizona Diamondbacks with an "illness," according to the team. Right-hander Luis Garcia will now make the start instead. McCullers has only made seven starts in 2022 after he got a late start to the season due to an injury, but he's pitched well in his seven starts, going 4-1 with a 2.38 ERA (3.41 FIP), a 1.25 WHIP, 45 strikeouts and 21 walks in 41 2/3 innings. It's unclear when or if he'll make another start in the regular season. Garcia has a 3.90 ERA (4.03 FIP), a 1.17 WHIP and a 147:46 K:BB in 26 starts for Houston this year and will be a fine streaming option for fantasy managers with something left to play for this year. |
Friday, September 23
| TEAM | PLAYER | TRANSACTION |
|---|---|---|
|  | Houston Astros second baseman Jose Altuve (elbow) is back at second base and is leading off on Friday against the Baltimore Orioles and right-hander Dean Kremer. Altuve missed Thursday's game after getting hit in the elbow by a pitch earlier this week, but he'll be back for the weekend series against Baltimore. Fantasy managers can go ahead and insert the 32-year-old veteran back into their starting lineups. Altuve has been scorching hot in the month of September, going 24-for-69 (.348) with three home runs, five RBI, 16 runs scored and six stolen bases in 18 games, and he's riding a modest four-game hitting streak going into Friday's game against the O's. |
Thursday, September 22
| TEAM | PLAYER | TRANSACTION |
|---|---|---|
| | Houston Astros second baseman Jose Altuve (elbow) was pulled out of Wednesday's contest after getting hit by a pitch. The organization believes that the veteran infielder has avoided a serious injury. He has been diagnosed with left elbow discomfort and is considered day-to-day. It doesn't sound like something that is going to cost Altuve more than a game or two. Fantasy managers should adjust their lineups accordingly. |
| | Houston Astros second baseman Jose Altuve (elbow) is not in the starting lineup on Thursday against the Baltimore Orioles. Altuve left Wednesday's game early after he was hit by a pitch on the elbow, so he'll take a day off on Thursday. The good news is that X-rays came back negative and he expects to be back in the lineup on Friday against Baltimore. With Altuve on the bench, veteran utility man Aledmys Diaz will start at second base and bat seventh against Orioles right-hander Kyle Bradish. Diaz has only played in five games so far in the month of September, but he's gone 6-for-18 (.333) with two home runs, six RBI and three runs scored. |
Friday, September 16
| TEAM | PLAYER | TRANSACTION |
|---|---|---|
|  | The Houston Astros activated starting pitcher Justin Verlander (calf) from the 15-day injured list on Friday and optioned Seth Martinez to the minors in a corresponding move. Verlander, who landed on the injured list on Aug. 30 with a calf injury, will make the start in a great matchup against the Oakland Athletics on Friday. There's a chance he could face a pitch count in his first start back, though, since he didn't go on a minor league rehab assignment while away from the team. Still, it's hard to leave the 39-year-old ace out of starting lineups, especially in the excellent matchup. The nine-time All-Star currently leads all of baseball in ERA (1.84), wins (16) and WHIP (0.85) while striking out 154 and walking just 26 in 152 innings over 24 starts. |
Thursday, September 15
| TEAM | PLAYER | TRANSACTION |
|---|---|---|
| | Houston Astros outfielder Yordan Alvarez (hand) is back in left field and is hitting third on Thursday against the Oakland Athletics and right-hander James Kaprielian. Alvarez shot down reports on Wednesday that he was held out of the lineup due to more hand soreness. The 25-year-old left-handed slugger is a must-start in fantasy, so he should be returned to starting lineups everywhere on Thursday. Alvarez is currently slashing .295/.403/.598 with a 1.000 OPS, 33 home runs, 84 RBI, 84 runs scored and one stolen base in 410 at-bats for the Astros. The next home run he hits will set a new career-high. |
Wednesday, September 14
| TEAM | PLAYER | TRANSACTION |
|---|---|---|
| | Updating a previous report, Houston Astros outfielder Yordan Alvarez (hand) is dealing with hand soreness, according to skipper Dusty Baker, and the team is holding Alvarez out of the starting lineup on Wednesday against the Detroit Tigers as a precaution. Baker said that it's something that Alvarez will have to manage over the last six weeks of the season. It's not exactly what fantasy managers want to hear, but the good news is that it doesn't appear to be a very serious issue. The 25-year-old left-handed slugger is a must-start fantasy commodity whenever he's in the lineup. In 410 at-bats this year, Alvarez is slashing .295/.403/.598 with a 1.000 OPS, a career-high-tying 33 home runs, 84 RBI, 84 runs scored and a stolen base in 118 games. |
| | The tentative plan is for Houston Astros right-hander Justin Verlander (calf) to return to the starting rotation on Friday against the Oakland Athletics, but manager Dusty Baker said it's not finalized yet. Verlander has already thrown multiple bullpen sessions without any setbacks and appears rearing to rejoin the rotation for the stretch run in September. The 39-year-old two-time Cy Young winner continues to be one of the best starting pitchers in fantasy despite his age, as he's gone 16-3 with a league-leading 1.84 ERA (2.71 FIP), a league-leading 0.85 WHIP, 154 strikeouts and only 26 walks in 152 innings over 24 starts. Verlander will be a no-brainer must-start against Oakland if he does indeed make his return on Friday. |
| | Houston Astros outfielder Yordan Alvarez (hand) clarified that he wasn't out of the starting lineup on Wednesday against the Detroit Tigers due to hand soreness, as was previously reported. Alvarez was getting a normal day of rest on Wednesday and was available off the bench. He'll be back in the lineup on Thursday for the start of a four-game series against the Oakland Athletics. The 25-year-old has dealt with hand soreness late this season, but apparently that hasn't become an issue again. That's great news as he looks to finish off his first All-Star campaign in the big leagues. Alvarez is currently slashing .295/.403/.598 with a 1.000 OPS, 33 home runs, 84 RBI, 84 runs scored and one steal in 494 plate appearances and 118 games. Get him back into your starting lineups on Thursday. |
Monday, September 12
| TEAM | PLAYER | TRANSACTION |
|---|---|---|
| | Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (calf) is with the team on their three-game series against the Detroit Tigers and is playing catch in right field at Comerica Park. Verlander is hoping to return from the 15-day injured list to make a start during this weekend's series against the Oakland Athletics. The 39-year-old right-hander threw his second bullpen session on Sunday, and he won't need a minor league rehab assignment before returning to the rotation. Verlander might not have a very long leash in his first start back, but it's hard to argue leaving him out of your fantasy lineups. The two-time Cy Young winner is 16-3 with a league-leading 1.84 ERA (2.71 FIP), a league-leading 0.85 WHIP, 154 strikeouts and only 26 walks in 152 innings over 24 starts this year. |
Sunday, September 11
| TEAM | PLAYER | TRANSACTION |
|---|---|---|
|  | Houston Astros utility man Aledmys Diaz (groin) will play one more game on Sunday for Triple-A Sugar Land with a scheduled return to the majors coming on Tuesday according to manager Dusty Baker. He's been sidelined with a groin strain since August 17, so it's a timely recovery after he was originally expected to miss several weeks with the ailment. Diaz has received starts all around the diamond this season to serve as a flexible option for whenever a regular starter needs a breather. He's done well in his 78 games played with 10 HR, 31 runs, 32 RBI, and a .252 BA, but he's only a realistic fantasy option for managers in deep leagues. |
Friday, September 09
| TEAM | PLAYER | TRANSACTION |
|---|---|---|
|  | The Houston Astros activated closer Ryan Pressly (neck) from the 15-day injured list on Friday and optioned Brandon Bielak to the minors in a corresponding move. Pressly was originally scheduled to be reinstated from the injured list earlier this week, but that was pushed back after he experienced more neck issues. Hopefully, the 33-year-old veteran right-hander is now good to go and can immediately return to ninth-inning duties for the first-place Astros. He didn't make any appearances on a minor league rehab assignment, so Pressly could be a bit rusty when he first pitches again in the big leagues. Expect Rafael Montero to shift back to a setup role. Pressly has a 3.11 ERA (2.08 FIP), a 0.93 WHIP, 25 saves and 46 strikeouts in 37 2/3 relief innings in 2022. |
| | Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (calf) threw a 30-pitch bullpen Friday, and pitching coach Josh Miller reported that "everything went well" during the session. Verlander has been progressing nicely after hurting his calf in a start two weeks ago and expects to return to the Astros rotation before the season is over. That being said, there is no concrete timeline and the team is likely to wait until they are sure Verlander is healthy, considering their current position in the standings. Still, Verlander can do a lot of good for fantasy managers in a small number of starts, so he should be kept around in hopes he returns soon. |
Wednesday, September 07
| TEAM | PLAYER | TRANSACTION |
|---|---|---|
| | Houston Astros manager Dusty Baker said that closer Ryan Pressly (neck) still doesn't feel right and did not return to the team Tuesday as intended, per Houston Chronicle's Chandler Rome. Pressly has been on the injured list since mid-August with neck stiffness, but Baker did clarify that he hasn't been shut down. This is not a good sign for fantasy managers, as there is not much time left in the fantasy season. However, the news makes teammate Rafael Montero even more of a fantasy asset down the stretch, who has been filling in for Pressly. |
| | Houston Astros right-hander Justin Verlander (calf) is progressing nicely, perhaps even quicker than expected. He hasn't thrown off a pitching rubber yet, but he threw off the slope of the mound on Wednesday. Verlander is hoping to throw a light bullpen session in the next couple of days, but there's still no concrete timetable for his return to the starting rotation. The Astros will want the 39-year-old two-time Cy Young winner fully healthy for the playoffs, so they'll make sure not to rush him back to close out September. It sounds like he'll be ready to go sooner than later, but he's still running out of time to help fantasy managers. Verlander continues to be excellent for fantasy managers, posting a league-best ERA (1.84) and WHIP (0.85) while striking out 154 and walking 26 in 152 innings over 24 starts in 2022. |
Tuesday, September 06
| TEAM | PLAYER | TRANSACTION |
|---|---|---|
| | Houston Astros general manager James Click said Monday that he is hopeful closer Ryan Pressly (neck) will return from the injured list Tuesday, per Fox 26's Mark Berman. Pressly has been sidelined with neck stiffness/spasms since August 22. Rafael Montero has been filling in nicely at the end of games for the Astros, but Pressly's 29 saves, 3.11 ERA, and 10.99 K/9 rate will be gladly welcomed back by both the team and fantasy managers. Fantasy managers should keep an eye out for the official transaction before making any roster moves. |
Monday, September 05
| TEAM | PLAYER | TRANSACTION |
|---|---|---|
| | Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (calf) was seen throwing on flat ground on Monday. General manager James Click said on Sunday that Verlander isn't likely to return from the 15-day injured list when he's eligible on Sept. 13, but he shouldn't be out too far beyond that. The 39-year-old right-hander could be ready to go on a minor league rehab assignment sometime later this week. Houston will stick with a six-man rotation with Verlander sidelined, and pitching prospect Hunter Brown is scheduled to make his major league debut on Monday against the Texas Rangers. Verlander has been one of the best pitchers in baseball in 2022, going 16-3 with a pristine 1.84 ERA (2.71 FIP), a league-leading 0.85 WHIP and a 154:26 K:BB in 152 innings over 24 starts. Keep him stashed everywhere. |
Sunday, September 04
| TEAM | PLAYER | TRANSACTION |
|---|---|---|
| | Houston Astros outfielder/designated hitter Yordan Alvarez (hand) is back in the lineup on Sunday against the Los Angeles Angels. The 25-year-old power bat has missed the last five games with hand discomfort but he's back in the lineup on Sunday. He's starting in left field and batting third against Angels starter Tucker Davidson. Alvarez is rocking a dynamic .294/.398/.597 batting line with 31 home runs and 80 RBI across 377 at-bats on the year. |
Saturday, September 03
| TEAM | PLAYER | TRANSACTION |
|---|---|---|
| | Houston Astros outfielder Yordan Alvarez was scratched from Friday's lineup with hand discomfort. The Astros will insert rookie Yainer Diaz into Alvarez's spot as the DH after the former was recalled from Triple-A earlier in the week. Alvarez has now missed the past four games with the hand issue, but he can still be considered day-to-day for the time being. Manager Dusty Baker told reporters earlier in the week that Alvarez is expected to avoid being placed on the injured list. Look for Houston to update his status at some point before Saturday's contest. |
| | Houston Astros outfielder/designated hitter Yordan Alvarez (hand) is not in the lineup for Saturday's game against the Los Angeles Angels. He was expected to return yesterday, but was a late scratch as he felt discomfort in his hand. This will be the fifth game Alvarez has missed due to the injury, but he should still be considered day-to-day for now. J.J. Matijevic will be the DH for the Astros on Saturday, with Trey Mancini manning left field. |
Friday, September 02
| TEAM | PLAYER | TRANSACTION |
|---|---|---|
| | Houston Astros outfielder/designated hitter Yordan Alvarez (hand) is back in the starting lineup Friday against Reid Detmers and the Los Angeles Angels, batting third and serving as the DH. The 25-year-old phenom missed three games while dealing with a sore left hand but is good to go Friday night. Fantasy managers will hope that the time off helps Alvarez get back on track, as the big lefty was held to a .234/.326/.312 slash line in August. The lack of power is an aberration for Alvarez, and it is likely that he will continue mashing in September. Get him back in your lineups. |
Wednesday, August 31
| TEAM | PLAYER | TRANSACTION |
|---|---|---|
| | Houston Astros outfielder/designated hitter Yordan Alvarez (hand) remains out of the starting lineup on Wednesday against the Texas Rangers. It will be the third straight game that Alvarez has missed due to left hand soreness, but fantasy managers should continue to consider him day-to-day. Trey Mancini is serving as the designated hitter on Wednesday and is batting fifth against Rangers left-hander Martin Perez. Mancini is hitting .265 (35-for-132) with three of his 16 home runs and 12 RBI against left-handed pitchers this year in 65 games. The 30-year-old has struggled since being traded to Houston, going 15-for-73 (.205) with six home runs, 16 RBI and nine runs scored in 22 games played. |
|  | Houston Astros outfielder Chas McCormick (finger) was scratched from the starting lineup on Wednesday against the Texas Rangers. McCormick is dealing with a sore right pinkie finger after dislocating the digit a week ago. Before playing on Tuesday, the 27-year-old missed the previous four games. For now, consider McCormick to be day-to-day. It's unclear if he'll be available off the bench on Wednesday. With an off day coming on Thursday, he could be back in there on Friday against the Los Angeles Angels. David Hensley is now serving as the team's designated hitter and will bat eighth against Rangers left-hander Martin Perez. Hensley should be avoided in DFS in what will be just his third major league game. |
| | Houston Astros outfielder/designated hitter Yordan Alvarez (hand) said he's 100 percent and expects to return to the starting lineup for the start of a series on Friday against the Los Angeles Angels. Alvarez has missed the last three games with a sore left hand, but it looks like he'll be good to go for fantasy managers this weekend after an off day on Thursday. The 25-year-old has slowed down a bit in August, hitting .234 (18-for-77) with just one homer, 10 RBI, 11 runs scored and 22 strikeouts in 23 games played. However, he's still deserving of must-start status in fantasy leagues, as he's hitting a strong .294/.398/.597 on the season with a .995 OPS, 31 long balls, 80 RBI, 78 runs scored and a stolen base in his 377 at-bats. |
Tuesday, August 30
| TEAM | PLAYER | TRANSACTION |
|---|---|---|
|  | The Houston Astros are calling up catching prospect Yainer Diaz, according to reports. Diaz is the team's No. 3 overall prospect, according to MLB Pipeline. The 23-year-old can also play some first base, giving Houston some flexibility when it comes to getting his name in the lineup. Diaz has excellent power and could hit for a high average in the big leagues. The backstop is batting .294 with 16 homers in 48 games in Triple-A in 2022. He becomes an interesting waiver add in most leagues. |
| | The Houston Astros placed starting pitcher Justin Verlander (calf) on the 15-day injured list on Tuesday. The veteran has enjoyed a strong bounce-back season in 2022, both for the American League West club and for fantasy managers, pitching to a 1.84 ERA, a 2.72 FIP, 154 strikeouts, and 26 walks in 152 innings this season. Houston also optioned outfielder Jake Meyers to Triple-A while also recalling pitcher Brandon Bielak and first baseman J.J. Matijevic. The team also added pitching prospect Hunter Brown to their taxi squad. |
| | Houston Astros outfielder/designated hitter Yordan Alvarez (hand) remains out of the starting lineup against the Texas Rangers on Tuesday. Alvarez will start on the bench for the second straight game due to left hand soreness. The 25-year-old left-handed slugger should be considered day-to-day for now. In Alvarez's place on Tuesday, J.J. Matijevic is serving as the designated hitter and batting eighth against Rangers right-hander Dane Dunning. Matijevic will be an unattractive, low-upside DFS commodity on Tuesday. The 26-year-old rookie has gone 11-for-55 (.200) with two home runs, four RBI and 19 strikeouts in his first 59 major league plate appearances in 2022. |
Monday, August 29
| TEAM | PLAYER | TRANSACTION |
|---|---|---|
| | Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (calf), who is the leading candidate for the American League Cy Young award this year, was pulled from his outing on Sunday against the Baltimore Orioles after only three innings (60 pitches) with right calf discomfort. Skipper Dusty Baker said Verlander would undergo an MRI exam on Monday to determine the extent of the injury, but Baker was relieved the injury wasn't to Verlander's arm or shoulder. The 39-year-old right-hander was tied for the league lead with 16 wins while also leading the majors in ERA (1.87) and opponents' OPS (.510) heading into Sunday's start. Houston has been careful with Verlander's workload in his comeback from Tommy John surgery, so expect them to bring him back slowly. If he's out for an extended period of time, the Astros could use a five-man rotation of Framber Valdez, Lance McCullers Jr., Luis Garcia, Jose Urquidy and Cristian Javier. |
Sunday, August 28
| TEAM | PLAYER | TRANSACTION |
|---|---|---|
| | Houston Astros outfielder/designated hitter Yordan Alvarez (hand) is not in the starting lineup on Sunday against the Baltimore Orioles. Alvarez is still dealing with soreness in his right hand and will retreat to the bench for the series finale. The Astros have a day off on Monday, so hopefully he'll be feeling better on Tuesday against the Texas Rangers. Alvarez has been dealing with his hand injury for most of the second half, but hopefully he won't need an injured list stint. Trey Mancini is in left field and is hitting fifth on Sunday, while David Hensley is serving as the designated hitter and batting seventh against Orioles right-hander Austin Voth. Mancini hasn't been as good in his 20 games with Houston, going 15-for-66 (.227), although he does have six home runs and 16 RBI. |
| | Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (calf) was removed early during Sunday's start against the Baltimore Orioles. The veteran right-hander was removed due to right calf discomfort. It sounds like Verlander was removed as a precaution, so it doesn't sound like this is something that will sideline him. The 39-year-old has been fantastic this season, so hopefully this won't be something that slows him down. Fantasy managers will have to check back later in the day for more information. |
Friday, August 26
| TEAM | PLAYER | TRANSACTION |
|---|---|---|
|  | Houston Astros outfielder Kyle Tucker (foot) is back in right field and is hitting fifth on Friday against the Baltimore Orioles and right-hander Kyle Bradish. Tucker injured his foot on Wednesday and was absent from the lineup on Thursday, but he'll be back in there on Friday for his fantasy managers. He'll be looking to extend a current 15-game hitting streak against a right-hander, so Tucker should be returned to all starting lineups in single-year leagues. The 25-year-old left-handed slugger is hitting .260/.338/.477 on the season with an .815 OPS, 22 home runs, 82 RBI, 56 runs scored and 19 stolen bases in 415 at-bats. His power/speed combination makes him a must-start in fantasy baseball. |
Thursday, August 25
| TEAM | PLAYER | TRANSACTION |
|---|---|---|
| | Houston Astros outfielder Kyle Tucker (foot) is not in the starting lineup on Thursday against the Minnesota Twins due to a foot injury. For now, fantasy managers should consider Tucker day-to-day until we know more. It's bad timing, as the 25-year-old lefty slugger is in the midst of a 15-game hitting streak in which he's gone 23-for-62 (.371) with three home runs, 15 RBI, 12 runs scored and three stolen bases to raise his season line to .260/.338/.477 with an .815 OPS, 22 home runs, 82 RBI, 56 runs scored and 19 stolen bases. Mauricio Dubon is starting in right field and is hitting eighth on Thursday against Twins right-hander Chris Archer. Dubon will be a low-upside DFS option who is hitting .223 (41-for-184) with four homers and 21 RBI in 2022. |
| | Houston Astros closer Ryan Pressly (neck) is going on the injured list on Thursday due to neck stiffness. The Astros are calling up Seth Martinez from Triple-A Sugar Land in a corresponding move. Pressly was unavailable to pitch the last two days, and now the Astros will keep him out for the next 15 days. The 33-year-old right-hander needs to be stashed in all fantasy leagues, as he's recorded 25 saves with a 3.11 ERA, 0.93 WHIP and 46 strikeouts in 37 2/3 innings this year. Bryan Abreu vultured a one-out save with Pressly unavailable on Tuesday, but Rafael Montero figures to be the team's primary ninth-inning option with Pressly sidelined. |
Wednesday, August 24
| TEAM | PLAYER | TRANSACTION |
|---|---|---|
| | Houston Astros closer Ryan Pressly (neck) had a stiff neck and was unavailable to close out Tuesday's 4-2 win over the Minnesota Twins. With Pressly unable to pitch, Bryan Abreu came in to vulture a one-out save, but Rafael Montero will likely see most of the save chances for Houston if Pressly's injury keeps him out any longer. Pressly dealt with some minor neck soreness earlier this month, so it's certainly something to watch. The 33-year-old picked up his 25th save of the year in his last outing on Sunday, and he's also sporting a 3.11 ERA, 0.93 WHIP and 46 strikeouts in 37 2/3 innings pitched. It remains to be seen how long Pressly will be out, but if you're in need of saves and Montero is available on the waiver wire, scoop him up immediately. |
| | Houston Astros skipper Dusty Baker said that closer Ryan Pressly (neck) will likely be unavailable for the second straight game on Wednesday against the Minnesota Twins while dealing with neck stiffness. It's an issue that Pressly has dealt with already this season, so fantasy managers should make plans just in case the 33-year-old right-hander will need a stint on the injured list. Bryan Abreu vultured the save against the Twins on Tuesday night, but Rafael Montero is the guy that fantasy managers will want to pick up if they have Pressley rostered or if they are desperate for saves. Pressly has 25 saves in 2022 to go along with a 3.11 ERA, 0.93 WHIP and 46 strikeouts in 37 2/3 relief innings for Houston. |
Sunday, August 21
| TEAM | PLAYER | TRANSACTION |
|---|---|---|
| | Houston Astros second baseman Jose Altuve (shoulder) is out of the starting lineup on Sunday against the Atlanta Braves due to a sore shoulder, according to skipper Dusty Baker. Fantasy managers should consider Altuve day-to-day for now. With Aledmys Diaz (groin) on the injured list, the Astros called up David Hensley from Triple-A Sugar Land on Sunday. Mauricio Dubon is starting at second base on Sunday and is hitting leadoff against Braves right-hander Charlie Morton. Dubon will have some sleeper DFS appeal out of the top spot in the Astros lineup, but he's hitting just .217/.262/.326 with four home runs, 20 RBI, 23 runs scored and one stolen base in 175 at-bats on the season. |
| | Houston Astros outfielder/designated hitter Yordan Alvarez (illness) is back as the designated hitter and is batting third on Sunday against Atlanta Braves right-hander Charlie Morton. Alvarez dealt with shortness of breath on Friday and was hospitalized as a precaution. The 25-year-old left-handed slugger was given the day off on Saturday, but he'll be back in there on Sunday and should be in all starting fantasy lineups in single-year formats. Alvarez is hitting a strong .295/.400/.612 with a 1.012 OPS, 31 home runs, 77 RBI, 76 runs scored and one stolen base in 356 at-bats. He's struggled a bit in August, going 12-for-56 (.214) with a homer, seven RBI and nine runs scored in 17 games played. |
| | Houston Astros infielder Aledmys Diaz (groin) is likely to miss a few weeks, according to general manager James Click. The 32-year-old utility man was placed on the injured list on Aug. 17 after suffering a groin injury during a game on Tuesday. If all goes well and he doesn't suffer any setbacks during his stay on the injured list, then Diaz could return to the Astros sometime in early to mid-September. He's slashing .252/.303/.417 with 10 home runs, 32 RBI and one stolen base over 254 at-bats on the year. |
Saturday, August 20
| TEAM | PLAYER | TRANSACTION |
|---|---|---|
| | Houston Astros outfielder Yordan Alvarez was removed from Friday's game against the Atlanta Braves with a suspected injury. Alvarez left in the middle of an Atlanta at-bat in the fifth inning and was replaced by Mauricio Dubon in the outfield. The 25-year-old Alvarez went 0-for-2 in the contest before his early departure. The Astros have yet to offer further information as to what is bothering Alvarez, but look for an update after Friday's game ends. Alvarez is hitting .295 with 31 homers, 76 runs, and 77 RBI in 2022. |
