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.

Jose Altuve exited the game in the third inning against the Cincinnati Reds due to tightness in his right hamstring. This occurred while the Astros were trailing significantly, 12-1. Altuve, who has been primarily playing in left field this season, recorded a walk and scored in the first inning before being substituted by Brendan Rodgers.

At 35, Altuve is currently batting .259 with four home runs and 14 RBIs. The team's struggles are compounded by his potential absence, making his health a key concern for Houston as they seek to improve their performance this season.

Brendan Rodgers, now with the Houston Astros, focused on elevating his batting performance during spring training. His ground ball rate dropped significantly, yet initial results were underwhelming with a .234 average and a sky-high strikeout rate. However, a highlight came during a recent game against the Brewers when he hit a three-run homer, his first for Houston. This swing indicated potential progress in his swing mechanics, which he has been adjusting with the coaching staff. Notably, his adjustments included using an axe-handle bat, which he believes helps him stay connected longer through his swing.

Despite showing improvements in hard-hit percentage and exit velocity, the lack of consistent production raises questions about his long-term fit in the Astros' lineup, especially with Jose Altuve's recent position change. Manager Joe Espada remains hopeful that continued work and adjustments will lead to better offensive output.

Brendan Rodgers, second baseman for the Houston Astros, is currently listed as "day to day" due to soreness in his left hip, as confirmed by manager Joe Espada. After starting nine of the team's first twelve games, Rodgers missed his second consecutive game but participated in pregame workouts, indicating some improvement.

In the interim, Mauricio Dubón filled in at second base for the Astros in Rodgers' absence. Additionally, the team is looking at Lance McCullers Jr.'s rehab progress, as he is set for another minor-league start while the Astros cautiously work to build him up for potential activation. The Astros are aiming for McCullers to throw around 80 pitches before making a decision on his return to the roster.