Houston Astros’ star second baseman, Jose Altuve, is set to undergo surgery for a fractured thumb he suffered while playing for his country, Venezuela, in the World Baseball Classic (WBC). The news comes as a blow to both the Astros and fans of the game, who will be eagerly waiting for updates on the condition of the four-time All-Star player.
The injury occurred during Venezuela’s match against the United States, and Altuve was immediately forced to leave the game. He was later diagnosed with a fractured left thumb, leading to his withdrawal from the remainder of the tournament.
Altuve has been a key figure for the Astros since joining the team in 2011. In the 2021 season, he batted .286 with five home runs, 10 RBIs, and a .844 OPS in 35 plate appearances. He is considered one of the best second basemen in the league and has won three AL batting titles and two Silver Slugger awards in the past.
The news of the injury came at a crucial time for the Astros, who are considered one of the favorites to win the American League this season. Altuve’s presence on the field is crucial for the team, and his absence could have a significant impact on their chances of winning games.
At this point in time, it is unclear how long Altuve will be out. However, the surgery will likely keep him out of action for several weeks. While his absence may be a significant setback for the Astros, the team has several players who can step up in his absence.
Yuli Gurriel is likely to move to second base while Altuve recovers, while Aledmys Diaz is also expected to fill in as a backup. The Astros can also count on Michael Brantley, Carlos Correa, and Alex Bregman to provide offensive firepower.
Fans of Altuve and the Astros will be eagerly waiting for further updates on his condition. For now, it is important to wish him a speedy recovery and hope he makes a quick return to the team.
In conclusion, Jose Altuve’s injury is undoubtedly bad news for the Astros, but they have a talented roster that is more than capable of stepping up in his absence. The most important thing now is for Altuve to receive the best possible care and make a full recovery before returning to the field.