Houston Astros get positive injury news during the July 2025 All-Star break. Get the latest on Yordan Alvarez, Jeremy Peña, and their return timelines.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
No game on the schedule for the Houston Astros today, but don't mistake the quiet for inaction. As the MLB world turns its eyes to the All-Star festivities, the most important developments for the Astros are happening behind the scenes, where a trio of injured stars is inching closer to rejoining the lineup for a critical second-half push.
The biggest news might be for Yordan Alvarez, who will be re-evaluated by doctors on July 17 with hopes of being cleared to finally start swinging a bat.
The Astros' injured list has felt more like a shadow All-Star roster lately, but positive news is finally trickling in. Shortstop Jeremy Peña has resumed baseball activities after suffering a rib fracture. While he isn't swinging a bat just yet, the team is optimistic he could return shortly after the break, shoring up the infield defense and lineup. Meanwhile, the wait for slugger Yordan Alvarez may soon be over. He faces a pivotal re-evaluation on July 17 for his right hand fracture. A green light to start swinging would be a massive step toward getting his formidable bat back in the heart of the order. Rounding out the good news, pitcher Spencer Arrighetti is already throwing live batting practice in Florida after breaking his right thumb and could start a rehab assignment soon.
The recent injuries have forced the front office's hand, leading to a flurry of roster moves just before the break. Center fielder Jake Meyers landed on the 10-day IL with a calf strain, while Zach Dezenzo was transferred to the 60-day IL. These moves, however, opened the door for a significant moment: the MLB debut of top prospect Brice Matthews. Though he had a challenging first outing on July 11, going 0-for-4 with three strikeouts against the Rangers, his promotion is a testament to the organization's belief in his talent and a crucial test of the farm system's depth.
As the All-Star break winds down, the focus for Astros fans is clear. It's not just about which players are returning from the festivities, but which players are returning from the injured list. A healthy Peña, a slugging Alvarez, and a ready Arrighetti could be the most impactful mid-season additions any team makes. The second half is coming, and the Astros are working hard to ensure they're at full strength for the fight ahead.
