Jose Altuve and rookie Jacob Melton drove in three runs each as the Houston Astros jumped on Chris Paddack early and cruised to a 10-3 win over the Minnesota Twins.

The Houston Astros' lineup is at less than full strength. Its top slugger remains sidelined by a hand injury. Its home run leader has a hamstring ailment. Two other outfielders populate its injured list.

Isaac Paredes' hamstring injury hasn't forced him to the IL yet, but Jacob Melton's new ankle injury could lead to a prolonged absence.

The Houston Astros head into the weekend fresh off another series win. They seem to be finding their footing ahead of the incoming dog days of summer. After a r

Paredes had started 22 consecutive games in the second spot since May 19, when Espada inserted him after leadoff hitter Jeremy Peña and moved Jose Altuve to the third spot.

Things had been going so well for Chris Paddack. Over 11 starts since April 12, the Twins right-hander had been one of the American League’s best pitchers. In 64 innings, he pitched to a 2.25 ERA (sixth in the AL in that span) and a 0.

Play him at second base, outfielder or designated hitter and it doesn’t matter. Houston Astros star Jose Altuve keeps producing.

The Houston Astros face many decisions when it comes to their roster, but one of the biggest factors influencing their trades is Jose Altuve.

The Houston Astros lost their decade-long anchor at third base in February when Alex Bregman bolted for Boston. Houston's new face at the hot corner has quickly quieted any concern over the future of the position.