Carlos Correa, originally known for his role as a shortstop, has shifted to playing third base for the Houston Astros in the 2026 season. As spring training unfolds, Correa openly acknowledges that Jeremy Pena was destined to become the Astros’ primary shortstop, a position Pena has held since 2022.
Reflecting on the transition during a recent media session, Correa shared that he recognized Pena’s potential to take over his spot as early as 2021. Understanding the young player’s talent and future with the team, Correa prepared himself mentally for a move away from the shortstop position to accommodate Pena’s emergence.
Early Realization of Team Changes During Free Agency
Correa recounted how, during his free agency year, practicing alongside Pena made it clear that the Astros’ focus was shifting. He said,
“When I started taking ground balls with [Pena] in my free agency year, I was like, ‘Yeah, I’m not coming back here,’”
acknowledging the promising future the Astros saw in Pena as a cost-effective and skilled option at shortstop.
Despite anticipating his departure, Correa expressed genuine admiration for Pena’s abilities on both offense and defense. He added,
“Just to be able to come back and just play with him, just play with him and just watch him become the superstar that he is right now, and how good he’s just on both sides of the ball at shortstop. He’s amazing. I just love the way that he plays the position.”
Journey Back to Houston and Team Dynamics
After leaving Houston during the 2022 free agency period to sign with the Minnesota Twins, Correa was traded back to the Astros in mid-2025. That season, he posted solid numbers, finishing with a .276 batting average, a .332 on-base percentage, 148 hits, 13 home runs, and 52 RBIs, reinforcing his value to the team.
Meanwhile, Jeremy Pena has solidified his standing as an elite MLB shortstop. He returned from the 2025 campaign with career-best stats, including a .304 batting average, .363 on-base percentage, 150 hits, 17 home runs, 62 RBIs, and 20 stolen bases. Pena’s consistent performance is expected to continue shaping the Astros’ infield strength in 2026.
The Impact of Their Partnership on Houston’s Infield
Now sharing the left side of Houston’s infield, Correa and Pena symbolize both the Astros’ present and future. Their combined experience and talent contribute significantly to the team’s competitive edge as they prepare for the 2026 season. Correa’s acceptance of Pena’s rise and their collaboration underscore the Astros’ ongoing commitment to building a strong, cohesive roster.
Carlos Correa knew in 2021 that Jeremy Peña would ultimately take the @Astros shortstop job.
Now they're on the left side of Houston's infield together#Astros #SpringTrainingTour
🔗 https://t.co/WG5zyiVTKm pic.twitter.com/7phIN3czCU— MLB Network Radio on SiriusXM (@MLBNetworkRadio) February 21, 2026
