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When will Jose Altuve return to Astros lineup in the 2023 season?

We provide the latest injury updates for Jose Altuve as he prepares to start the season on the IL.

Jose Altuve #27 of the Houston Astros looks on against the St. Louis Cardinals during the second inning of the game at Roger Dean Stadium on March 06, 2023 in Jupiter, Florida. Photo by Megan Briggs/Getty Images

The Astros’ quest to repeat as World Champions took a bit of a hit in the preseason when All-Star second baseman Jose Altuve fractured his right thumb in the World Baseball Classic while playing for Team Venezuela.

Altuve, who underwent surgery on his thumb in the middle of March, hit .300 last year with 28 home runs and 57 RBIs en route to his eighth All-Star game appearance.

Jose Altuve Injury Update

May 19 Update — Altuve has completed his rehab assignment and did not suffer any setbacks. He is set to return on Friday night against the Oakland Athletics.

May 3 Update — Altive told reporters before Wednesday’s game that he is making progress in his recovery. He has received clearance to field ground balls, but is still awaiting the go-ahead on swinging.


The Astros opened the season with Altuve on the 10-day IL, which is relatively good news considering there was some buzz that he could end up being placed on the 60-day injured list. Astros general manager Dana Brown told reporters on March 22 that Altuve would be able to resume baseball activities after two months.

If Altuve sticks to that timeline, he’d likely be able to return to game action around the start of June. The Astros will be relying on Mauricio Dubon and David Hensley to man second base in Altuve’s absence.