HOUSTON -- The Astros placed reigning American League Most Valuable Player Jose Altuve on the 10-day disabled list for the first time in Altuve's eight-year career, Houston manager AJ Hinch announced following Saturday's 7-3 loss to the Rangers.
Altuve has not played since he was removed from the fourth inning of Wednesday's game against the Rockies at Coors Field with right knee discomfort, a lingering injury that caused pain in the second baseman's knee days prior to his in-game exit. Altuve said he met with Astros team doctors on Saturday, and they believed a DL stint was necessary.
"Basic things, like walking and to go down the stairs, it feels good," Altuve said. "I haven't done anything more than that. Like I said, the doctor came, checked on me, and he said it was better to get it done.
"If they think it's better to go on the DL for the team and for me, in order to come back healthy and strong, we've got to go there and do it," Altuve added.
With Altuve sidelined, the Astros recalled infielder Tyler White from Triple-A Fresno on Sunday. White, who has made 12 appearances at first base this season and has batted .219 in 40 plate appearances, was scratched from Fresno's lineup Saturday night in order to rejoin the Astros.
With shortstop Carlos Correa (lower back) already on the 10-day disabled list, the Astros will enter their upcoming eight-game road trip to the Mariners, Dodgers and Giants without either of their All-Star middle infielders. Third baseman Alex Bregman and utility defender Marwin Gonzalez have patrolled Correa and Altuve's positions during this weekend's series against the Rangers.
Altuve's DL stint is retroactive to Thursday, so Altuve will be eligible to return Aug. 5 against the Dodgers.
"It's my first time in my career, so I'm not really happy about it," Altuve said.