Astros All-Star Shortstop Peña Out of World Baseball Classic

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Houston Astros shortstop Jeremy Peña, a 2025 American League All-Star, has been ruled out of competing for the Dominican Republic in the upcoming World Baseball Classic due to a fracture in the tip of his right ring finger. Peña, 28, is expected to be re-evaluated in two weeks and may have to begin the 2026 MLB season on the injured list.

Why it matters

Peña's injury is a significant blow to both the Astros and the Dominican Republic national team. As an All-Star shortstop, Peña is a key player for the defending World Series champions, and his absence could impact the team's performance to start the season. The Dominican Republic squad will also have to adjust its roster and lineup without one of its top players.

The details

Peña suffered the finger fracture during a workout and visited a hand specialist on Thursday in West Palm Beach, Florida. The Astros announced the diagnosis and said Peña will be re-evaluated in two weeks to determine the next steps in his recovery.

• On Thursday, March 5, 2026, the Astros announced Peña's injury and diagnosis.
• Peña will be re-evaluated in two weeks to determine if he can start the 2026 MLB season on time.

What’s next

The Astros will re-evaluate Peña's injury in two weeks to determine if he can start the 2026 MLB season on time or if he will need to begin the year on the injured list.