Alvarez is also built for the moment and he’s thrived under high-pressure situations, playing a pivotal role in eliminating the Mariners from the playoffs in 2022 in the ALDS—smacking a three-run walk-off blast in Game 1. Houston went on to win a World Series title a few weeks later.

For ESPN MLB writer Bradford Doolittle, the key to the Astros' postseason run potentially ending in a World Series title is whether or not Alvarez can return to form once he's activated later this season.

Alvarez’s buildup since he resumed swinging a bat last month has been gradual. Alvarez resumed hitting off a tee July 18 and hit soft toss several days later. The slugger took indoor batting practice Friday and is scheduled to hit on the field Saturday in West Palm Beach, Fla., Espada said.

Houston Astros manager Joe Espada announced Yordan Alvarez news before Friday's game against the New York Yankees.