Astros' Carlos Correa News Emerges After Removal From Lineup

The Houston Astros are gearing up for the 2026 season, and there is still hope that the current roster can make a push toward October baseball. While Houston missed the postseason last year, the group will still return many veteran superstars.

One of them is preparing for his first full season back with the organization, infielder Carlos Correa, who was traded back to the Astros from the Minnesota Twins at last year’s deadline.

Correa thrived once he returned. Over 51 games, the 31‑year‑old posted a .290 batting average, .355 on‑base percentage, .785 OPS, six home runs and 21 RBIs. It ultimately was not enough to push Houston into the playoffs, but it was an encouraging sign.

Houston Astros third baseman Carlos Correa (1) © Erik Williams-Imagn Images

It was also important for the Astros to see Correa stay mostly healthy after reacquiring him. While the Twins are still paying a portion of his salary for the final three years of his six‑year, $200 million deal, Houston remains committed to him for the foreseeable future.

Correa has dealt with recurring health issues in recent seasons, most notably plantar fascia problems, making his availability a key storyline entering 2026.

On Friday, another update emerged regarding a minor setback. The Astros were preparing for a spring training game against the Washington Nationals, and Correa was initially expected to be in the lineup. However, according to Brian McTaggart of MLB.com, Correa was scratched due to stiffness on the right side of his neck.

The hope is that this is nothing serious, and with Opening Day still weeks away, the Astros are likely being cautious. Still, the health of this roster is crucial.

Starting shortstop Jeremy Pena recently suffered a fractured finger and will miss the World Baseball Classic, leaving his Opening Day status uncertain. Correa is expected to fill in at shortstop if Pena is unavailable, making his own health even more important.

Correa is a franchise icon for Houston. Drafted No. 1 overall in 2012, he went on to win AL Rookie of the Year, earn a Platinum Glove, make two All‑Star teams and establish himself as a key piece of Houston’s championship core during his first stint. As the Astros look to rebound in 2026, his presence and durability will play a major role in determining how far this team can go.

This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Mar 6, 2026, where it first appeared in the MLB section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Astros’ Carlos Correa News Emerges After Removal From Lineup

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