Houston Astros left fielder Yordan Alvarez, shortstop Jeremy Pena injured in outfield collision

NEW YORK — Houston Astros left fielder Yordan Alvarez and shortstop Jeremy Pena were injured when they collided in the eighth inning of Wednesday’s game against the New York Mets while driving down a pop-up.

When Pena switched to the right and the game was goalless, Dominic Smith slammed the ball into the short left. Both players called for the ball and when Pena caught it, each slapped the other in the face with his glove.

Both fell to the ground and needed help. Alvarez was carted off, sitting up, and Pena went back to the dugout.

Chas McCormick replaced Alvarez and Mauricio Dubon took over for Pena, who initially wanted to stay in the game.

The game resumed with a delay of about eight minutes.

The Astros won the game 2-0 and gave ace Justin Verlander (10-3) his tenth major league win of the season.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.