Jed Lowrie injury looks serious

It appears as though the Astros may have lost shortstop Jed Lowrie for a significant length of time. Lowrie had to be helped off the field in the third inning of tonight’s game after what looked to be a serious knee injury.

Lowrie’s right knee was twisted and bent awkwardly when Gregor Blanco slid into him at second base. Lowrie was caught in a vulnerable position with his back to the runner on a ground ball that was fielded by Jose Altuve. Brian Bixler came into the game to replace Lowrie at shortstop.

If the injury is as serious as it looked, Lowrie will be placed on the disabled list and Marwin Gonzalez will be recalled from AAA Oklahoma City where he is currently rehabbing a heel injury. Gonzalez should be ready to go and is now the healthiest SS in the organization. AA shortstop Jonathan Villar suffered a broken hand Friday night when he punched a door. Villar, who is having an excellent season, led off the game with a homer prior to his decision to fight an inanimate object.

Brett Wallace was forced to play shortstop last night for Oklahoma City. That’s another reason the Astros should call up the versatile Wallace, now.

Fox Sports Houston is now reporting that Lowrie suffered a sprained ankle. It would be great if that is the full extent of the injury, but I think there is more news to come. Stay tuned.