The Houston Astros got a boost ahead of Opening Day, with shortstop Jeremy Pena returning to game action after missing time with a right ring finger injury that had put his availability for the start of the season in doubt.
Jeremy Pena started at shortstop and played for six innings with four at-bats on Tuesday against the Sugarland Space Cowboys, marking his first action since being sidelined.
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The timing of Pena’s return is significant. Houston enters 2026 with legitimate American League contender expectations, and their shortstop is a foundation of that roster. A two-time Gold Glove winner, Pena is one of the better defensive shortstops in the game and a critical piece of the Astros’ infield.
Losing Pena to start the season would have forced Houston to lean on depth options at one of the most demanding positions on the field.
Finger injuries can be particularly problematic for hitters, especially one affecting Pena. The decision to ease him back through an exhibition against their own Triple-A affiliate suggests that the Astros are being deliberate about managing his workload and not taking any unnecessary risks ahead of the season.
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Pena had a strong 2025 campaign, with a .303 batting average on 150 hits, including 17 home runs in 125 games, all the while anchoring a top defensive infield in the American League. His success last season earned him his first-ever All-Star selection, a milestone that placed him as one of the better shortstops in the game.
Houston Astros infielder Jeremy Pena (3).© Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
(© Sam Navarro-Imagn Images)
His ability to impact both sides of the ball makes his availability for Opening Day a clear priority for Espada and Houston’s coaching staff. The Astros are not a different team without him, but they miss his range on both sides of the ball.
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Houston has not officially declared Pena in or out for Opening Day, leaving his status in a wait-and-see position as the regular season arrives. Espada said Pena’s comfort level following the game and a workout on Wednesday will be the deciding factor.
If he clears his post-exhibition workout without any setbacks, he is expected to take his place in the lineup when the Astros begin their season on Thursday against the Los Angeles Angels at Daikin Park.
For a franchise that has been a constant presence in the postseason over the last decade, getting Pena back healthy and on the field from day one is exactly the kind of news the clubhouse needed heading into what they hope is another deep October run.
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This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Mar 25, 2026, where it first appeared in the MLB section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.