Home / Sports / Alvarez Shifts to Left Field for Astros' Sunday Game
Alvarez Shifts to Left Field for Astros' Sunday Game
17 Aug
Summary
- Yordan Alvarez will play left field, a rare defensive start.
- Alvarez is a leading candidate for AL MVP due to his offensive performance.
- Jose Altuve returns to the lineup as the designated hitter.
The Houston Astros announced a rare strategic shift for Yordan Alvarez prior to their Sunday night game against the Seattle Mariners. Alvarez, a leading contender for the American League MVP award, will start in left field for the series finale. This is an infrequent defensive assignment for Alvarez, who has largely been utilized as the designated hitter in recent years due to his defensive limitations.
Alvarez is enjoying a phenomenal offensive season in 2026, positioning him as the frontrunner for the AL MVP. He is currently on pace for a Triple Crown, leading the American League in multiple major hitting statistics. His season includes a .321 batting average, 36 home runs, 88 RBIs, and an OPS+ of 195. The Astros' lineup also sees the return of Jose Altuve, who will serve as the designated hitter, with Nick Allen taking over at second base.
