The Houston Astros are once again prioritizing the health of star shortstop Jeremy Peña, who has been ruled out of the starting lineup for the team's series opener against the Oakland Athletics on Friday.
The decision comes after Peña suffered a right-hand contusion earlier this week when he was hit by a 100 mph pitch from Los Angeles Angels starter Walbert Ureña. While he is comfortable enough to play defense, Peña still isn't ready to fully swing the bat.
Peña's latest absence is more about his comfort level while hitting than any major structural injury. An MRI revealed no structural damage to his hand, but there is still swelling and soreness, particularly when he swings the bat.
The Astros are taking a cautious approach with one of their most important players. Peña was hit by a 100 mph sinker during Wednesday's game and was eventually removed after the injury became an issue.
Despite being out of the starting lineup, Peña could still be available off the bench if Houston needs him. Manager Joe Espada has expressed optimism that Peña could return to the starting lineup as soon as Saturday if his hand continues to improve.
That would be a significant boost for an Astros team that desperately needs its best hitters available. Peña has been one of Houston's most productive offensive players this season, posting a 126 OPS+, second on the team behind only Yordan Alvarez.
The Astros have also been significantly better with Peña in the lineup, going 43-33 in games he starts compared with 21-31 without him. For now, the team appears to be prioritizing Peña's long-term health over putting him back in the lineup before he's completely comfortable.
If the soreness continues to improve, Houston could have its starting shortstop back as soon as Saturday. The team will closely monitor Peña's progress in the coming days and make a decision based on his comfort level at the plate.
The Astros' decision to prioritize Peña's health is a reflection of the team's commitment to its players' well-being. With the playoffs just around the corner, the team will want to ensure that its key players are fully healthy and ready to perform at their best.
The team will face the Athletics on Friday without Peña in the starting lineup, but he could still be available off the bench. Manager Joe Espada will continue to monitor Peña's progress and make a decision based on his comfort level at the plate.
The Astros will provide an update on Peña's status after the game on Friday, but for now, the team is taking a cautious approach with one of its most important players.
Source: Yahoo Sports
