Jeremy Peña Suffers Fracture and Misses the World Baseball Classic
The Houston Astros’ star shortstop, Jeremy Peña, has been diagnosed with a fracture in the tip of his right ring finger, the team announced this Thursday. The player will be reevaluated in two weeks, which puts his participation in the start of the regular season at risk. The injury, discovered during an examination by a hand specialist, will also prevent him from participating in the World Baseball Classic. Astros manager Joe Espada informed the media that Peña suffered the damage in the nail area after a strong hit during an exhibition game with the Dominican Republic national team on Wednesday. Peña was removed shortly after the incident. Peña, born in the Dominican Republic but raised in Rhode Island, was going to debut in the international tournament. The Dominican Republic’s first game in the WBC is on Friday in Miami against Nicaragua, and the tournament final is scheduled for March 17.Cruz did not announce the replacement, but indicated that the team expects to have it ready for Friday’s game.He will be out for two weeks. We will have to find a replacement.
Nelson Cruz, General Manager of Dominican Republic
Peña, 28 years old, comes from a standout season in 2025, where he was selected for his first All-Star and batted .304 with an OPS of .840 and 20 stolen bases.We have a great team. Jeremy was part of it. We have been preparing. Unfortunately, he will not be able to be with us. We will make the best possible decision.
Albert Pujols, Manager of the Dominican Republic
