Some good news in Chicago, aside from the Cubs’ win against the Pirates. Dansby Swanson could be back in one week’s time, just in time for the postseason rush. As for the Twins, Byron Buxton won’t be back on the field this season.
Alvarez not in Houston lineup
The Astros did not play Yordan Alvarez in the club’s 3-1 loss to the Rays on the 11th.
Per Houston manager Joe Espada, Alvarez is dealing with a right ankle injury.
Timeline set for Swanson
Manager Craig Counsell indicated a rough timeline for when to expect Dansby Swanson back on the field.
Swanson is expected to go on rehab next week with Triple-A Iowa. Should all go well, he’ll be activated during the club’s series versus the Reds in Cincinnati.
The Cubs shortstop has been out since mid-August with an oblique injury.
Buxton officially done for 2026
The Twins confirmed that Byron Buxton will have arthroscopic hip surgery on September 18, which will obviously end his 2026 campaign.
Buxton’s hip was a sore point for much of the second-half. Since the end of June, the All-Star outfielder has only played 20 games for Minnesota.
IL moves
The Braves placed Lane Thomas on the 10-day IL with a strained left intercostal muscle.
Red Sox outfielder Eli White was placed on the 10-day IL with a right foot ligament injury.
As expected, the Dodgers officially placed Shohei Ohtani on the 15-day IL with right biceps inflammation. Additionally, the club cleared a 40-man roster spot by moving Eric Lauer (left elbow inflammation) to the 60-day IL.
Rehab assignments
Rangers third baseman Josh Jung went 0-for-3 with Triple-A Round Rock.
Guardians reliever Shawn Armstrong went an inning for Triple-A Columbus, allowing one run.
Red Sox first baseman Willson Contreras went 2-for-4 with two RBI and two strikeouts for Double-A Portland. Additionally, Tanner Houck struck out four over three innings (48 pitches) for the Sea Dogs.
Other notes
The Dodgers did not start Freddie Freeman against the Marlins on September 11. Per manager Dave Roberts, the club opted to give his knee another day, citing the Dodgers’ long trek to Miami and the need for added rest.
Pirates 1B/OF Esmerlyn Valdez was helped off the field at Wrigley Field. Valdez is dealing with hamstring discomfort.
Jac Caglianone (elbow) was out of the Royals’ starting lineup.
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