Astros' Javier, Alvarez Shine in Spring Training

Updates on key Astros prospects and players as the team prepares for the 2026 season

Mar. 16, 2026 at 7:51pm

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The Houston Astros have been busy in Spring Training, with several key players and prospects making an impression. Pitcher Cristian Javier continues to build up his arm strength, while top outfield prospect Kevin Alvarez made his first appearance with the big league club. Yordan Alvarez and manager Joe Espada were both impressed by the young Alvarez's performance. Another top prospect, Brice Matthews, has been getting reps in the outfield as the team looks to increase his versatility. Shortstop Jeremy Pena is feeling better and hopes to be ready by Opening Day, while pitcher Spencer Arrighetti will miss a few days for the birth of his twins.

Why it matters

The Astros are looking to build on their recent success and make another deep playoff run in 2026. The development of their top prospects like Javier, Alvarez, and Matthews will be crucial to their long-term plans, while getting key players like Pena healthy for the start of the season is also a priority.

The details

Pitcher Cristian Javier continues to work on regaining his pre-injury velocity, with manager Joe Espada liking what he's seen so far. Top outfield prospect Kevin Alvarez made his first appearance with the big league club, going 0-for-3 but impressing Espada and veteran Yordan Alvarez with his performance. Brice Matthews has been getting reps in the outfield as the team looks to increase his versatility, and shortstop Jeremy Pena is hoping to be ready for Opening Day after feeling better. Pitcher Spencer Arrighetti will miss a few days for the birth of his twins.

  • Cristian Javier's velocity has improved from his last outing.
  • Kevin Alvarez made his first appearance of spring with the Astros in a Grapefruit League game on March 15, 2026.
  • Brice Matthews came into yesterday's game and played left field, his first appearance at the position.
  • Jeremy Pena is hoping to be ready by Opening Day, though the decision is still undecided.
  • Spencer Arrighetti will throw a simulated game today before leaving the team for a few days for the birth of his twins.

The players

Cristian Javier

A pitcher for the Houston Astros who is working to regain his pre-injury velocity.

Joe Espada

The manager of the Houston Astros.

Kevin Alvarez

A top outfield prospect for the Houston Astros who made his first appearance with the big league club.

Yordan Alvarez

A veteran outfielder for the Houston Astros who was impressed by the performance of prospect Kevin Alvarez.

Brice Matthews

A top prospect for the Houston Astros who has been getting reps in the outfield as the team looks to increase his versatility.

Jeremy Pena

The Astros' shortstop who is hoping to be ready for Opening Day after feeling better.

Spencer Arrighetti

A pitcher for the Houston Astros who will miss a few days for the birth of his twins.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

The Astros' focus on developing their top prospects and getting key players healthy for the start of the season shows their commitment to building a sustainable contender in 2026 and beyond.