In a troubling development for the Philadelphia Phillies, the team has received what insiders are calling a “worrying” medical update on All-Star second baseman Jose Altuve, raising new concerns about his availability for the coming weeks — and potentially the rest of the season.
Altuve, who was acquired by the Phillies in a blockbuster offseason trade with the Houston Astros, has been a cornerstone of the team’s offense early this season. However, he was scratched from the lineup earlier this week due to what the club initially described as “right knee discomfort.”
Now, that minor concern appears to be something much more serious.
According to sources close to the organization, recent imaging revealed structural inflammation and potential cartilage damage in Altuve’s right knee — the same knee he had surgery on in 2022. Team doctors are reportedly weighing multiple options, including a possible platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection or even a short-term shutdown to avoid further aggravation.
“There’s real concern inside the clubhouse,” one source said. “No one’s pushing the panic button just yet, but they know how important Altuve is to this lineup — especially with how well he’s been playing.”
The 34-year-old veteran has been off to a strong start in 2025, slashing .305/.372/.478 with 4 home runs and 15 RBIs through 22 games. His leadership, championship experience, and steady glove up the middle have been invaluable for a Phillies team eyeing another deep postseason run.
Manager Rob Thomson addressed the situation cautiously before Friday’s game.
“We’re still evaluating everything,” Thomson said. “We’ll know more soon, but right now we’re going to be smart and make sure Jose gets the right care. It’s a long season.”
If Altuve is sidelined for any extended period, the Phillies will likely lean on utility infielder Edmundo Sosa or look to Triple-A for support. There’s also speculation that the front office could explore the trade market if the injury lingers into the summer.
For now, Phillies fans will be holding their breath. Losing a player of Altuve’s caliber — especially with the team firing on all cylinders — would be a major blow to Philadelphia’s championship hopes.
Expect further updates from the team in the coming days as doctors finalize a treatment plan.
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