Houston Astros All-Star shortstop Jeremy Peña has been diagnosed with a fracture at the tip of his right ring finger, forcing him to withdraw from the World Baseball Classic, the team reported Thursday in West Palm Beach, Florida. Peña is scheduled for a follow-up evaluation in two weeks as concerns grow about his availability for the Astros’ Opening Day matchup against the Los Angeles Angels.
Details of Peña’s Injury and Impact on Dominican Republic Team
The injury was identified after Peña underwent an exam by a hand specialist Thursday, following an incident during an exhibition game on Wednesday. Astros manager Joe Espada revealed Peña sustained damage to the nail area of his finger while fielding a sharply hit ground ball for the Dominican Republic national team. Peña was promptly removed from the game and will not participate in his first World Baseball Classic appearance.
Dominican Republic is set to begin its WBC campaign on Friday in Miami against Nicaragua, as the tournament progresses towards its championship scheduled for March 17.
He’s going to be out for two weeks. So, we’ll have to make a replacement,
said Nelson Cruz, general manager of the Dominican Republic, during the team’s WBC workout in Miami.
Cruz did not disclose the name of Peña’s replacement but expressed hope to finalize the roster before the upcoming game. Manager Albert Pujols acknowledged Peña’s absence and the team’s adjustment.
We have a great team. Jeremy was part of this team,
Pujols stated.
We have been preparing ourselves. Unfortunately, he won’t be able to be with us. … We are going to make the best possible decision.
Peña’s Career Highlights and Future Uncertainty
At 28 years old, Peña was coming off a breakthrough season in 2025, earning his first All-Star selection while batting .304, maintaining an .840 OPS, and stealing 20 bases. His injury not only disrupts the Dominican Republic’s lineup but casts doubt on his role with the Astros as they enter the new season.
The situation remains fluid as Peña’s condition will be assessed again in two weeks, with the potential to affect Houston’s early-season plans.
