Astros' Jeremy Peña out for WBC with finger fracture

Isaac Paredes would need to handle a more prominent role if Houston's shortstop is unavailable for Opening Day.

Mar. 5, 2026 at 8:10pm

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Houston Astros shortstop Jeremy Peña fractured the tip of his right ring finger fielding a ground ball during an exhibition game against the Detroit Tigers in the Dominican Republic. Peña, a first-time All-Star in 2025, was expected to be a major part of the Dominican Republic's roster for the World Baseball Classic, but will now miss the tournament.

Why it matters

Peña's injury is a significant blow to the Dominican Republic's chances in the World Baseball Classic, as he was one of their top players. It also creates uncertainty around his availability for the start of the Astros' regular season, which could impact the team's lineup and roster decisions.

The details

Peña visited a hand specialist on Thursday in West Palm Beach, Florida, after which the Astros announced his diagnosis of a fractured right ring finger. The team said Peña will be re-evaluated in two weeks. In Peña's place, Arizona Diamondbacks shortstop Geraldo Perdomo will take over at shortstop for Team Dominican Republic.

  • Peña sustained the injury on Wednesday during an exhibition game against the Detroit Tigers in the Dominican Republic.
  • Peña's injury occurred 22 days before the start of the Astros' regular season.

The players

Jeremy Peña

Houston Astros shortstop and a first-time All-Star in 2025.

Geraldo Perdomo

Arizona Diamondbacks shortstop who will replace Peña on the Dominican Republic's World Baseball Classic roster.

Isaac Paredes

Houston Astros infielder who could see a more prominent role if Peña is unavailable for the start of the regular season.

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What’s next

The Astros said Peña will be re-evaluated in two weeks to determine the extent of his injury and his availability for the start of the regular season.

The takeaway

Peña's injury is a significant setback for both the Dominican Republic's World Baseball Classic hopes and the Astros' plans for the start of the 2026 season. The team will have to rely more heavily on players like Isaac Paredes to fill the void left by Peña's absence.