Image Source: The New York Times
Astros postseason preparations have suffered a late setback, with outfielder Daulton Varsho placed on the 10-day injured list because of left wrist inflammation. The transaction was announced September 24 and backdated to September 23, leaving Houston without one of its key outfield options as the regular season reaches its decisive final stretch.
Fellow outfielder Jorge Barrosa was selected to replace Varsho on the active roster. To make room for Barrosa on the 40-man roster, the Astros designated right-hander Jason Alexander for assignment.
Astros Lose Varsho Before a Critical Wild Card Push
Varsho has dealt with problems in his left wrist throughout the season. He previously spent time on the injured list with inflammation while playing for the Blue Jays in June. According to Chandler Rome of The Athletic, Varsho is dealing with two cysts in the wrist, and the issue has worsened recently.
The injury may help explain a sharp decline in his offensive production. Varsho hit 20 home runs in only 271 plate appearances last season, posting a .238/.284/.548 batting line and a 123 wRC+. In 2026, however, he has managed 12 home runs across 526 plate appearances, with his line dropping to .221/.281/.355 and his wRC+ falling to 78.
His struggles became even more pronounced after Houston acquired him at the trade deadline. Since joining the club, Varsho has hit just .172/.224/.311. While the injury makes his absence more understandable, the timing remains difficult for a team fighting to secure its place in the American League postseason.
Houston’s Outfield Depth Faces an Urgent Test
The Astros are currently half a game behind the Rangers in the American League West, although Houston holds the tiebreaker. That means the club needs to finish level with Texas by Sunday night to claim the division position. Every remaining game now carries major significance.
Lucas Spence started in center field after Varsho’s placement on the injured list, but his offensive track record provides little immediate reassurance. Spence has only 45 major league plate appearances and is hitting .150/.244/.175.
Houston could also move Taylor Trammell from left field to center, with LaMonte Wade Jr. receiving more work in left. However, Trammell is considered a defensive stretch in center field. Jake Meyers and Brice Matthews are also on the injured list, further limiting the Astros’ flexibility.
Barrosa gives Houston a reliable defensive option. He has posted only a .179/.244/.301 career batting line, but he owns five Defensive Runs Saved and 12 Outs Above Average across 647 2/3 innings in the outfield. He is more likely to serve as a late-game defensive replacement than a regular offensive contributor.
- Varsho is expected to miss the Wild Card round.
- A return could be possible by the American League Division Series.
- Barrosa is not eligible for the postseason because he was claimed after the September 1 eligibility deadline.
- Houston must continue its playoff chase with limited center-field depth.
Jason Alexander Moves Into Uncertain Territory
Alexander’s designation also creates a decision point for the Astros. The 33-year-old right-hander was claimed off waivers from the Athletics last year and provided useful depth, throwing 71 1/3 innings with a 3.66 ERA over 14 appearances.
His 2026 season has been less successful. Alexander has pitched only 18 1/3 innings in the majors while allowing 19 earned runs. He has also recorded a 5.03 ERA in Triple-A, although the hitter-friendly Pacific Coast League can inflate pitching numbers.
Alexander is in his final option year and will be out of options going forward. The Astros must now place him on waivers, where another club searching for innings could potentially claim him. If he clears waivers, Alexander can elect free agency because he has previously been outrighted.
For Houston, the immediate priority is clear: secure a playoff spot, stabilize the outfield and survive without Varsho. The club had hoped his arrival would strengthen a position that has remained unsettled since Kyle Tucker was traded before the 2025 season. Instead, the latest injury has created another urgent roster challenge just before October baseball.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the Astros place Daulton Varsho on the injured list?
Varsho was placed on the 10-day injured list because of left wrist inflammation. He reportedly has two cysts in the wrist, and the condition has worsened recently.
How long could Daulton Varsho be unavailable?
Varsho is expected to miss the Wild Card round. If the Astros advance, he could potentially return for the American League Division Series.
Who replaced Varsho on the Astros roster?
Jorge Barrosa was selected to replace Varsho. Barrosa is known primarily for his defensive ability and could see late-game action in the outfield.
Can Jorge Barrosa play in the postseason?
No. Barrosa was claimed after the September 1 postseason eligibility deadline, meaning he can help Houston during the regular season but cannot join the playoff roster.
