Astros' Jeremy Pena Takes Step Forward in Finger Injury Recovery

Pena performs infield exercises as he aims to return by Opening Day

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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Houston Astros infielder Jeremy Pena, who suffered a fractured finger, was seen performing infield exercises with the team on Tuesday, indicating he is making progress in his recovery. Pena, an All-Star who hit .304 in 2025, is hoping to be ready for the Astros' season opener on March 26 against the Los Angeles Angels.

Why it matters

Pena is a key player for the Astros, providing strong defense at shortstop and offensive production, including 17 home runs and 62 RBIs last season. His timely return will be crucial for the Astros as they look to bounce back from missing the playoffs in 2025.

The details

Pena was seen in a video posted by MLB.com reporter Brian McTaggart performing infield exercises with the Astros, a positive sign in his recovery from the fractured finger he suffered. Pena said the 'goal is to try to be ready for Opening Day,' though he acknowledged the uncertainty around the healing process. The Astros open their season on March 26 against the Angels.

  • On March 10, 2026, Pena was seen performing infield exercises with the Astros.

The players

Jeremy Pena

An All-Star shortstop for the Houston Astros who hit .304 with 17 home runs and 62 RBIs in the 2025 season.

Houston Astros

A Major League Baseball team based in Houston, Texas that competes in the American League West division.

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What they’re saying

“The goal is to try to be ready for Opening Day. I don't know how it's going to heal, I don't know what the process is going to be like, but the goal is always to try to join the team for Opening Day.”

— Jeremy Pena (MLB.com)

What’s next

The Astros will continue to monitor Pena's progress as he works to recover from the fractured finger in time for the team's season opener on March 26 against the Los Angeles Angels.

The takeaway

Pena's recovery is crucial for the Astros, who missed the playoffs in 2025 and need their star shortstop back in the lineup. His ability to perform infield exercises is an encouraging sign, but the team will have to wait and see how his finger heals in the coming weeks.