Jeremy Pena Faces Oblique Strain Challenge
Astros Face Challenging Times as Jeremy Pena Sustains Oblique Injury
Houston Astros shortstop Jeremy Pena is set back by a left oblique strain, he confirmed during a press conference on Thursday. The news, initially reported by Chandler Rome of The Athletic, follows Pena’s absence from the lineup for the past four games. The situation adds to the challenges the Astros are facing, as they were recently swept at home by Seattle and have lost the first two games in their series against the Athletics.
Jeremy Pena’s Injury: Implications for the Houston Astros
Just days ago, General Manager Dana Brown commented that Pena’s oblique injury “could be just a two-day thing.” However, it now seems the shortstop may face a longer recovery period. Oblique injuries typically take weeks to heal, rather than days. This timing is particularly unfortunate for Houston, as Pena previously dealt with a left side issue, missing 27 games due to a broken left rib earlier in the season.
Houston’s Lineup Adjustments
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Mauricio Dubon | Shortstop |
| Carlos Correa | Shortstop (Wednesday) |
| Ramon Urias | Shortstop (Potential Option) |
Mauricio Dubon has assumed shortstop duties for three of the last four games, while Carlos Correa took over the role on Wednesday. Ramon Urias remains a versatile option, though he hasn’t played shortstop in the major league since 2022. Dubon’s defensive skills make him a viable substitute, even though replicating Pena’s offensive output will be challenging. Pena ranked seventh among shortstops in Outs Above Average, with Dubon close behind in eighth.
Pena’s Breakout Season in Review
Jeremy Pena was in the midst of a breakthrough 2025 season, posting a 135 weighted Runs Created Plus (wRC+) and slashing .304/.363/.477. Showcasing improved plate discipline, he matched a career-high 20 steals and advanced his hard-hit rate to over 40%, according to Statcast data. While his home run count of 17 did not match his rookie season tally, it marked an improvement over 2024, achieved in 107 fewer plate appearances. His ability to blend improved discipline with potent power turned Pena into a key offensive player for Houston.
Astros’ Playoff Hopes in Jeopardy
The timing of Pena’s injury could not be worse for the Astros, who are vying to keep their postseason hopes alive. Currently trailing the Detroit Tigers for the final American League Wild Card slot, the team has had to contend with additional injuries, including Yordan Alvarez’s recent ankle sprain. While the temptation to play Pena at less than full health may arise, his absence, along with the injury to Isaac Paredes, who himself is easing back from a hamstring injury, reveals the tightrope Houston is walking to stay competitive.
