Jeremy Peña Injury Sidelines Dominican Republic Star for WBC

Astros' shortstop suffers fractured finger, could miss start of MLB season

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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Houston Astros shortstop Jeremy Peña has suffered a fractured right ring finger, forcing him to withdraw from the upcoming World Baseball Classic. The injury is a major blow to the Dominican Republic's national team, which was counting on Peña's star power, and could also impact the Astros' plans for the start of the MLB regular season.

Why it matters

Peña was a key player for both the Dominican Republic and the Astros. His absence from the WBC leaves a major hole in the Dominican's talented middle infield, while the Astros may have to adjust their plans if Peña is unable to start the MLB season on time.

The details

Peña suffered the injury during a scrimmage against the Detroit Tigers on Wednesday. The Astros' medical staff will reevaluate him in two weeks, but if he is unable to play by opening day, the Astros may have to rely more on players like Isaac Paredes who have been involved in trade rumors this offseason.

  • Peña suffered the injury on Wednesday during a scrimmage against the Detroit Tigers.
  • The Astros will reevaluate Peña's status in two weeks.

The players

Jeremy Peña

The Houston Astros shortstop and 2022 World Series MVP, who was set to play for the Dominican Republic in the World Baseball Classic.

Isaac Paredes

An Astros infielder who has been involved in trade rumors this offseason and could see more playing time if Peña is unable to start the regular season.

Geraldo Perdomo

An Arizona Diamondbacks star who is now the only true shortstop on the Dominican Republic's WBC roster.

Amed Rosario

A New York Yankees utility player who has significant shortstop experience and is also on the Dominican Republic's WBC roster.

Albert Pujols

The manager of the Dominican Republic's WBC team.

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What they’re saying

“Though the Dominicans are as well-equipped as any team to deal with a loss like Peña, it's a tough pill to swallow regardless.”

— Jackson Roberts, Author (Newsweek)

“Meanwhile, Astros fans will have to sweat it out for the time being, as any time missed during the regular season could have ramifications for the year-end standings.”

— Jackson Roberts, Author (Newsweek)

What’s next

The Astros will reevaluate Peña's status in two weeks to determine if he will be ready for the start of the MLB regular season.

The takeaway

Peña's injury is a significant blow to both the Dominican Republic's World Baseball Classic hopes and the Astros' plans for the start of the MLB season. The Astros may need to rely more on players like Isaac Paredes, while the Dominican team will have to adjust its talented middle infield without its star shortstop.