A Season Plagued by Setbacks
The Houston Astros have endured one of the toughest seasons in franchise history. Astros Fight Injuries in 2025 has become the headline as 29 players landed on the Injured List, testing every corner of the roster. From pitchers to utility men, no position has been spared.
At one point, the Astros lost their three biggest bats—Jeremy Peña, Yordan Alvarez, and Isaac Paredes—all at once. While the offense stalled, the story of Astros Fight Injuries in 2025 also highlights the team’s grit. Against the odds, Houston’s resilience has kept them in the playoff chase.
Paredes Making Progress in Florida
On Wednesday, general manager Dana Brown provided a glimmer of hope during his weekly appearance on SportsTalk790 with Sean Salisbury. He revealed that Isaac Paredes, sidelined since July 19 with a right hamstring strain, could make an unexpected return.
“We’re actually talking about Paredes coming back this weekend,” Brown said. “There’s an outside chance he could be back for the Seattle series. He’s doing that well in Florida right now, and so we’re staying optimistic there.”
The Astros placed Paredes on the 60-day IL, and many believed his season was over. Yet his recovery has exceeded expectations. This year, the two-time All-Star launched 19 home runs in just 94 games, ranking third on the team despite missing extensive time. More than his power, Paredes is known for his patience at the plate, often forcing pitchers into long battles that wear them down.
Gradual Return to Action
While the idea of slotting Paredes straight back at third base sounds appealing, Brown confirmed the Astros will take a cautious approach.
“Initially, it will be designated hitter,” Brown said. “I can’t say it’s going to be DH the whole time, but we’ll start there. The idea would be DH, day off, DH, day off. You really want to bring him back gradually.”
This measured plan makes sense. The Astros need Paredes for the long haul, not just a weekend series. If managed correctly, his return could strengthen the lineup at just the right moment.
Updates on Alvarez and Hader
Brown also gave updates on other key pieces. Closer Josh Hader, who has been nursing an injury of his own, might only reappear if the Astros reach the postseason. “If we see him, it’d be at some point in the postseason,” Brown noted.
As for Yordan Alvarez, the situation remains murkier. A sprained ankle with lingering swelling has kept the slugger off the field. While imaging ruled out a fracture, the healing process has taken longer than expected. “We’re still on hold because of the swelling,” Brown said. For now, fans can only hope Alvarez’s ankle improves in time for the stretch run.
The Playoff Picture Tightens
Despite the injury woes, the Astros remain in contention. The Seattle Mariners currently sit atop the AL West, but Houston has games in hand that could determine the division. ESPN projects the Astros with an 89% chance of making the postseason.
Still, there is a big difference between sliding into October through the Wild Card round and clinching the division crown. The former demands extra games and travel; the latter provides rest and a more straightforward path to the pennant. Every game in late September now carries added weight.
Why Paredes Matters Most
Paredes’ potential return may be the difference maker. His knack for drawing walks, grinding at-bats, and delivering power makes him the type of hitter opponents dread in October. Even if limited to DH duties, his presence changes the entire lineup’s rhythm.
In a season defined by obstacles, the Astros’ fight is far from over. Paredes’ return might boost the Astros, steady the ship, inspire confidence, and remind the league that Houston remains a contender despite injuries.