Just as the Houston Astros were grappling with the delayed return of star slugger Yordan Alvarez, the team has now been dealt another devastating blow: a top talented fielder has suffered a critical knee injury, further depleting their already thinned roster.
According to multiple team sources, Jeremy Peña, the Astros’ standout shortstop and 2022 ALCS MVP, has officially been placed on the injured list with a significant knee injury sustained during Friday’s game against the Tampa Bay Rays. Peña appeared to tweak his right knee while making an aggressive slide into second base and immediately signaled for the training staff.
Initial evaluations over the weekend revealed more damage than expected, and further imaging confirmed a partial ligament strain, which will keep him sidelined for several weeks. While surgery is not currently being considered, his rehab timeline could extend into late June or early July, depending on recovery progress.
“It’s definitely a setback,” manager Joe Espada told reporters on Sunday. “Jeremy is such a key part of our defense and lineup. Losing him, especially with Yordan already out, really tests our depth.”
This is just the latest in a growing list of injuries plaguing the Astros. With Yordan Alvarez already sidelined due to a small fracture in his right hand, and now Peña joining him with a knee issue, Houston’s lineup is without two of its most dynamic contributors.
Peña, 26, was in the midst of a strong season, hitting .284 with 6 home runs, 28 RBIs, and 10 stolen bases, while also continuing to anchor the infield with Gold Glove-caliber defense.
His absence leaves a significant void in the middle of the Astros’ defense, and it’s unclear who will step up to fill that role. Mauricio Dubón is expected to take over shortstop duties in the interim, with potential call-ups from Triple-A Sugar Land also being considered.
Houston (currently 31-27) has done well to stay afloat in the AL West, remaining within striking distance of the Seattle Mariners despite recent struggles. However, with both Peña and Alvarez now out indefinitely, the team’s margin for error is shrinking.
The Astros’ front office will likely be forced to explore short-term trade options or lean more heavily on young talent to patch the holes in their lineup.
“This is a resilient team,” GM Dana Brown said. “We’ve faced adversity before, and we’ll fight through it. But make no mistake — losing Jeremy is a big hit.”
With back-to-back key injuries, the Astros are now entering a critical stretch of the season shorthanded. The hope is that both Peña and Alvarez can return by midseason, but until then, Houston will be tested like never before.
The fans and the organization can only hope that the worst is behind them — but as it stands, injuries are quickly becoming the Astros’ toughest opponent in 2025.
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