Sports

Yordan Alvarez Trade Rumors: New Report Emerges on Astros Star

The Houston Astros have struggled early in the 2026 MLB season, entering Friday's away game against the Cincinnati Reds with a disappointing 15-23 record, yet only 4.5 games behind the first-place Athletics in the American League West.

Houston's difficult start has led to growing speculation surrounding the organization's long-term outlook as the club searches for production early in the year.

Discussion surrounding the Astros' future direction intensified after MLB Network debated the possibility of Houston potentially trading star left-handed slugger Yordan Alvarez.

The three-time All-Star and 2021 American League Championship Series MVP has played in Houston since 2019, and facilitating a trade would likely signal a rebuild for the 2017 and 2022 World Series champion Astros.

 Houston Astros designated hitter Yordan Alvarez (44) © Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
Houston Astros designated hitter Yordan Alvarez (44) © Troy Taormina-Imagn Images © Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

However, a recent report shut down these rumors. According to Will Kunkel, the Astros are reportedly not considering a trade involving Alvarez despite the team's disappointing start to the season.

"I am told Astros star Yordan Alvarez is 'NOT ON THE MARKET,' per a source. There have been ZERO calls of interest on Alvarez at this point. MLB Network had a full segment on the potential of the Astros trading Yordan Alvarez. Houston is 15-23 but just 4.5 GB of 1st place in the AL West," Kunkell wrote on X.

Alvarez remains one of the most important pieces of Houston's lineup and has emerged as an early AL MVP candidate amidst a sensational start to the 2026 season. The 28-year-old outfielder is currently hitting .319 with 12 home runs and an OPS of 1.061 through 38 games this season, top five amongst AL hitters in each of those categories.

The Astros have relied heavily on Alvaraz to generate offense over the past several seasons, and it appears the organization remains focused on competing in the tight AL West race rather than beginning a major roster rebuild.

Houston looks to turn their season around as they begin a three-game away series in Cincinnati on Friday.

Related: Astros' Christian Walker Announces Update After Leaving Red Sox Game

Copyright 2026 Athlon Sports. All rights reserved.

This story was originally published May 8, 2026 at 3:19 PM.

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