Houston Astro’s Loses Two Top Players due to Injury…

Houston Astros second baseman Jose Altuve exited Wednesday’s game against the Oakland Athletics after the fifth inning due to discomfort on his right side, but both he and acting manager Joe Espada downplayed any major concern.

Altuve signaled for Espada and the trainer after feeling something during his swing in the fifth. He completed the at-bat by striking out on a bunt attempt but did not return for the sixth inning.

Espada explained that Altuve “got fooled on the pitch” and felt some discomfort, so he decided to bunt as a precaution. The team considers him day-to-day.

Altuve clarified that his right side only hurt after that specific swing, and while he previously dealt with an oblique injury, Espada doesn’t believe it’s related. Espada said, “It’s just right side discomfort, and we’ll see how he feels tomorrow.”

Altuve himself wasn’t too concerned, saying he would wait until Thursday to reassess his condition. He added, “I’m not really worried. Maybe I wake up tomorrow and feel fine.”

Mauricio Dubón replaced Altuve at second base in the sixth inning, with Ben Gamel and Jason Heyward also shifting positions to cover for him.

Before leaving the game, Altuve was 0 for 3, and for the season he’s batting .302 with 19 home runs and 62 RBIs. His 174 hits ranked fourth in the majors before Wednesday.

In addition to Altuve’s situation, the Astros also learned that outfielder Chas McCormick has a small fracture in his right hand, and he will be placed on the 10-day injured list. A timeline for his recovery hasn’t been set.