Jose Altuve not in Astros lineup Saturday vs. Rangers
By Mike Marteny
Houston Astros All-Star second baseman Jose Altuve is not in the lineup for tonight’s game vs. the Texas Rangers at Minute Maid Park. Altuve left Friday’s game with neck discomfort, and was having trouble moving his head.
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Not enough improvement was made for Altuve to be in the lineup tonight. Gregorio Petit will bat ninth and man the Keystone in his absence.
No decision has been made yet regarding whether Altuve will land on the disabled list. If left up to him, he would be in the lineup tonight.
Altuve declared he’s “not 100%, but way better” when asked about his health. He said that he will be available to pinch hit or pinch run, and expects to be back in the starting lineup tomorrow.
Altuve is leading the majors with 158 hits this season, which is ten more than Melky Cabrera, who is in second place. Daniel Murphy of the Mets leads the National league with 144.
Robbie Grossman will man right field and take over the leadoff spot in Altuve’s absence.
Any lineup without Altuve in it significantly decreases the Astros chances of winning. He is having a breakout season, hitting .333/.369/.434 with 32 doubles, two triples, four homers 34 RBI, and 45 stolen bases in 51 tries. His 45 steals lead the American League, and trail only Dee Gordon‘s 51 for the major league lead.
First pitch for tonight’s tilt will be at 7:10 eastern time with Scott Feldman taking the mound for the home team. He will be opposed by Texas ace Yu Darvish.