The Houston Astros will be without Jose Altuve for Wednesday's series finale against the San Francisco Giants after the veteran second baseman remained out of the lineup with a bruised left foot.
Altuve exited Tuesday's 4-1 loss after being hit by a pitch in the opening inning. Initial X-rays came back negative, but manager Joe Espada said the nine-time All-Star is still dealing with significant soreness and will undergo further evaluation once the club returns to Houston.
Matt Kawahara reported Wednesday that Altuve was not in Houston's starting lineup as the Astros continue monitoring his recovery.
Altuve has appeared in 96 games this season, batting .240 with 89 hits, 13 home runs, 35 RBIs and 54 runs scored. The injury occurred when Giants starter Carson Whisenhunt hit him on the left foot with a slider in the first inning. Although Altuve remained in the game briefly, the discomfort worsened and he was replaced in the second inning.
Houston enters Wednesday atop the American League West at 61-60, holding just a half-game lead over the Texas Rangers. With the division race tightening, any extended absence for Altuve would leave a significant void near the top of the Astros' lineup.
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Nick Allen is expected to handle additional middle infield responsibilities while Altuve recovers. Houston hopes the additional imaging confirms the injury is limited to a contusion and allows the veteran to avoid an injured list stint.
The Astros have already dealt with several roster challenges this season, making Altuve's health another storyline to watch as they try to protect their narrow division lead during the final stretch of the regular season.
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