Jeremy Pena is the Houston Astros starting shortstop. He is dealing with a finger injury at the moment, however. For now, Carlos Correa is expected to fill in at the position, according to Chronicle Astros. Correa is open to playing the position, and he of course used to primarily handle shortstop duties before moving to third base.
Would the Astros ever consider moving Correa back to shortstop on a full-time basis? The chances of it happening are seemingly slim right now. It isn’t as if Pena is in danger of losing the job. He ranked in the 94th percentile in outs above average in 2026, and he also swung the bat well en route to an All-Star appearance.
Advertisement
So, why even mention Correa potentially returning to shortstop? The next few weeks will give the Astros an opportunity to see if the veteran can still play the position at a respectable level. Pena, 28, is set to enter free agency following the 2027 season. Unless Houston is able to sign him to a contract extension, Pena could end up elsewhere either via free agency or trade. Meanwhile, Correa, 31, is under contract through 2028 and his deal features vesting options from the 2029 season through 2032.
If the Astros believe that Correa can handle shortstop and if they decide that signing Pena to an extension would not be able to happen, Houston could consider trading Pena at some point. If the Astros struggle this year, moving on from him before the trade deadline could be a possibility. If Houston competes, then trade talks wouldn’t be realistic until next offseason.
Jeremy Pena Trade?
Houston Astros shortstop Jeremy Pena (3) © Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
(© Troy Taormina-Imagn Images)
Pena has not been mentioned in trade rumors. With that being said, Houston does not always give out long-term contract extensions. For example, the Astros traded Kyle Tucker the year before his contract season.
Advertisement
For clarity, this Pena trade idea is purely speculation and not based on rumors. It wouldn’t be shocking to see it happen at some point, however.
Correa’s presence on the roster may allow Houston to turn to him instead of going after another shortstop in free agency. Correa may not be the long-term answer at shortstop since he is already 31 years old, but he could help out at the position for the next few years if possible.
As a result, the next few weeks will be important for Correa. He can prove that he’s still capable of playing the premier position.
Advertisement
Related: Astros’ Jose Altuve Already Attacking 2025 Problem at Spring Training
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Mar 9, 2026, where it first appeared in the MLB section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.