(HOUSTON) SportsRadio 610 -- The Astros have activated slugger Yordan Alvarez from the injured list hours before they begin a weekend home series against the Seattle Mariners.
Alvarez had been unavailable since the start of summer camp in July. He was active at spring training in February and March, though playing the outfield caused some stress on his knees, which bothered him even during his American League Rookie of the Year campaign last season.
Alvarez's knee issues are not believed to be the reason for his absence at training camp and the Astros' first 18 regular season games.
His presence will be welcomed on this team (8-10), which is third in the AL West standings.
Only three teams have left more runners on base than the Astros, and each of them has played in more than 18 games.
The Astros optioned right-handed pitcher Nivaldo Rodriguez to Corpus Christi to make room for Alvarez on the roster.
