Houston Astros' Jose Altuve is poised for more playing time at second base following the injury of Brendan Rodgers, who is on the injured list with a left oblique strain. While the Astros recalled Shay Whitcomb from Triple-A, manager Joe Espada opted to keep Altuve in left field, starting Mauricio Dubón at second base. Rodgers has struggled this season, hitting just .191 with a low OPS, making his absence feel less impactful. Meanwhile, Altuve, a nine-time All-Star, has had a mediocre season himself, yet remains a key player with second-most homers on the team. The Astros are currently five games ahead in the AL West.