The Astros are feeling the impact of an injury to Carlos Correa, who got hurt just before Tuesday’s game against the Dodgers.
During batting practice, Correa twisted his ankle, which led to him being set aside from the lineup. Reports suggest that he might be out for an extended period.
“He just started swinging when he hurt himself,” manager Joe Espada explained.
Espada mentioned that Correa is scheduled to consult a podiatrist the following morning, and the team hopes to gather more information on his condition then.
Correa has been a notable performer for the Astros, serving as the leadoff hitter with a solid .279/.369/.418 batting line, along with three home runs. This is significant, especially considering the team’s shaky start of 15-22.
After Houston managed to secure a 2-1 win, Correa had already left the stadium and was unavailable to address the media.
This marks the second consecutive day where a player was removed from the lineup shortly before the game. On Monday, catcher Yainer Diaz also faced an injury, affecting his oblique muscle while batting.
Injury woes aren’t limited to just Correa. Starting outfielders Joey Loperfido and Jake Myers, as well as shortstop Jeremy Peña, are currently on the injured list, and it appears Correa could join them soon.
“Carlos is essential to this team,” stated first baseman Christian Walker. “We rely on his leadership, and his influence is always felt. We just need to support him and remain optimistic.”
Interestingly, Correa’s ankle issues have caused complications in the past; they previously hindered his free agency in 2023. Potential contracts with both the Giants and Mets fell through due to long-term concerns regarding his ankle.
In response to Correa’s injury, the Astros shifted Nick Allen from third base to shortstop and brought Brayden Shoemake into the game as a third baseman.
Jose Altuve took over the leadoff position, filling in for Correa, and Shoemake was placed in the No. 9 spot in the batting order.
Both Walker and Shoemake made impressive plays, hitting the first two home runs of the season off Shohei Ohtani, helping the Astros clinch the victory.
