baseball

Yordan Alvarez's MLB injury scares Astros

Yahoo Sports

Houston's slugger carried the offense through much of the season.

Yordan Alvarez's MLB injury scares Astros originally appeared on The Sporting News . Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here . Chicago Cubs pitcher Colin Rea released an 87-mph splitter Saturday, prompting Houston Astros slugger Yordan Alvarez into an awkward swing, fouling off the pitch and falling behind 0-2 in the count.

Alvarez stepped outside of the batter's box at Wrigley Field, appearing in discomfort. Astros manager Joe Espada and members of the training staff again ventured out near the on-deck circle to chat with the three-time All-Star. The follow-up conversation didn't end well.

Alverez exited the game and was replaced by Zach Dezenzo, who struck out swinging on the next pitch. The Astros, who claimed their first win in 13 outings at the iconic ballpark Friday night, earned a 3-0 win Saturday, extending the Cubs' losing streak to seven games. In their past four games, the Cubs have failed to score off the opposing starter .

With Alvarez suffering back spasms, the Astros face their own internal struggles. Astros' Yordan Alvarez injured on swing attempt The injury-riddled Astros will be without Alvarez for Sunday's series finale against the Cubs. Speaking to reporters after the game Saturday, the Astros' leading hitter said he will take a "scheduled day off," MLB.