Alvarez is on the Astros’ wild-card roster, but Verlander has opted out

Yordan Alvarez is on the Houston Astros’ roster for their wild-card series against the Detroit Tigers and will play second in the first game on Tuesday.

Alvarez is in the lineup as the designated hitter.

However, three-time Cy Young Award winner and 2011 American League MVP Justin Verlander is not on the Astros’ roster. Verlander pitched Saturday night and picked up his 262nd career win as the Astros defeated the Cleveland Guardians 4-3.

Alvarez hasn’t played in a game since September 22, when he suffered a sprained right knee against the Los Angeles Angels.

A three-time All-Star, Alvarez hit .308 with 35 homers and 86 RBIs this season for the Astros, who finished first in the American League West with an 88-73 record.

Verlander has won two of his last three starts after missing two months with neck trouble. He is 5-6 with a 5.48 ERA this season.