Reigning American League Rookie of the Year Yordan Alvarez is set to make his 2020 debut for the Houston Astros after being activated from the injured list Friday after a positive COVID-19 test for summer camp.
Alvarez has not played this season since joining IL in July. He told reporters Friday that just a few days before the start of the summer camp, he tested positive for COVID-19, with his only symptoms being a few headaches.
Alvarez said his wife also tested positive and was asymptomatic, while his daughter tested negative.
He has played in intrasquad games on the alternative training side of the team in preparation for his return to the roster of the premier league. The Astros host the Seattle Mariners on Friday.
Manager Dusty Baker told reporters earlier this week that he did not suggest Alvarez play in the outfield after his knees were injured during spring training.
Alvarez, 23, hit .313 with 27 home games and 78 RBIs in 87 games last season.
‘I think so [Alvarez] in the lineup, a lot of things can happen, “teammate George Springer told reporters earlier this week. We all got a pretty good glimpse at the game he was able to do last year. He is a very, very impactful bat. Having such a man in it can hopefully extend the lineup a bit and add a spark like two. “
In a corresponding move, the Astros added optional pitcher Nivaldo Rodriguez to the team’s alternative training side.
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