Astros keep finding ways to win despite mounting injuries

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Today's starting lineup

The Astros continue to pile up the wins, while also seeing their personnel losses mount. Houston showed Tuesday it still finds different ways to win, with the latest display coming in its series opener against the Rockies. That came hours after Yordan Alvarez was shut down again in his comeback bid from a fractured hand. And Jeremy Peña, the latest prominent name on the injured list, doesn't believe his rib injury is "something too serious," but is unsure of when he might return.

Please scroll down for the rest of this morning’s headlines.

Greg Rajan, Senior Editor

greg.rajan@houstonchronicle.com

Astros / MLB

Houston Astros' Jose Altuve, right, congratulates Victor Caratini after his grand slam off Colorado Rockies starting pitcher Chase Dollander in the third inning of a baseball game Tuesday, July 1, 2025, in Denver. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)

Photo by: David Zalubowski, Associated Press

Another way to win

Tuesday's win over the Rockies was the latest example of the Astros finding key hits and runs with stars like Jeremy Peña and Yordan Alvarez out.

Astros 6, Rockies 5: Victor Caratini struck the biggest blow, a third-inning grand slam to key a five-run frame, and houston held on to top Colorado. Read More
Setback for Alvarez: Yordan Alvarez said he felt pain in his right hand after taking "some swings" against live pitching in Florida and has been shut down. Read More
What's next for Peña: Jeremy Peña is eligible to return next week, but didn't want to put a timetable on when he might come back from a fractured rib. Read More
Whitcomb up: Infielder Shay Whitcomb joins the Astros for his third stint this season. Read More

Rockets / NBA

Kevin Durant (left) and LeBron James (right) of the United States during the second half of an exhibition game between the United States and Australia ahead of the Paris Olympic Games at Etihad Arena on July 15, 2024 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

Photo by: Christopher Pike, Getty Images

Peek into KD

Kevin Durant's talk with LeBron James and Steve Nash on their "Mind the Game" podcast was recorded before his trade to the Rockets, but he gave insights into his offensive philosophy.

Getting rave reviews: The Rockets were the talk of all the sports debate shows after their big free agency push as experts compared them to the reigning NBA champion Thunder. Read More
Preseason slate set: The Rockets' four-game preseason schedule is set, with the first two exhibitions coming at home. Read More