Yordan Alvarez took a different approach to his health during the 2026 season, hiring a personal trainer to travel with him throughout the year.
The Houston Astros star had played only 48 games in 2025 because of a fractured right hand and an ankle sprain. After that difficult season, Alvarez wanted to take a more hands-on approach to his physical preparation and recovery.
That decision helped Alvarez remain available for 158 games in 2026, a career high, as the Astros returned to the postseason and won the AL West.
Alvarez finished the regular season with a .316 batting average, 42 home runs and 106 RBI. He also posted a .432 on-base percentage, .601 slugging percentage and 1.033 OPS.
The Astros relied heavily on Alvarez’s bat during their run to the division title. Houston finished 81-81, winning the AL West by one game over the Texas Rangers.
Alvarez also dealt with a left ankle issue during the season. His traveling trainer helped manage the inflammation, allowing him to avoid an injured-list stint and remain available down the stretch.
The Astros also limited his defensive workload, with manager Joe Espada using Alvarez primarily as a designated hitter. That approach helped reduce the physical demands on the slugger while keeping his bat in the lineup.
Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
ALSO SEE: Poll: Who Can Go From Wild Card to World Series?
After missing significant time in 2025, Alvarez’s availability became one of the notable parts of his 2026 season. He played a career-high 158 games while producing one of the strongest offensive seasons of his career.
Now, Alvarez enters the Wild Card Series against the Chicago White Sox with the Astros looking to build on their division title. His health will remain an important part of Houston’s postseason plans.
Greatest Astros of All Time
- 5 Best Houston Astros Hitters of All Time
- 5 Best Houston Astros Pitchers of All Time
