Overview

• Astros GM Dana Brown confirmed that Alvarez sustained a small fracture in his right fourth metacarpal that is about 60 percent healed after follow-up imaging on May 31
• Initial MRI on May 6 missed the fracture because excessive inflammation and fluid obscured the injury
• Alvarez will rest completely until the fracture fully heals and is barred from batting though he may continue running and outfield work
• Houston has called up top prospect Jacob Melton to fill Alvarez’s spot and is weighing veteran free-agent options such as Anthony Rizzo to bolster the lineup
• Fans and analysts have criticized the club’s medical handling and front office decision-making, noting last season’s delayed diagnosis of Kyle Tucker’s shin fracture as a parallel case