The Houston Astros' shortstop Jeremy Peña is sidelined with a left rib fracture, but he remains optimistic about a swift recovery. After being hit by a pitch, Peña was placed on the 10-day injured list retroactive to June 28. Initial X-rays showed no fracture, but further imaging revealed the issue. Peña is currently in recovery, focusing on treatment while traveling with the team and engaging in light exercises.

Despite the injury, Peña expressed confidence in the Astros' depth, noting his teammates' ability to step up during his absence. He currently leads the team in several offensive categories, including OPS and runs scored. As he recuperates, the Astros will likely rely on players like Isaac Paredes and Mauricio Dubón to fill the gaps left by Peña's absence. Peña's expected return is still uncertain, but the team is optimistic he could be ready before the All-Star break.

The Houston Astros are adjusting their lineup following the injury of shortstop Jeremy Peña, who has been placed on the injured list due to a left rib fracture. In response, the team has called up infielder Shay Whitcomb from Triple-A Sugar Land. This marks Whitcomb's third stint with the Astros in recent weeks, although he has struggled at the plate in his previous seven games this season, failing to record a hit in nine at-bats.

Peña's injury, retroactive to June 28, means he could potentially return by July 8. With Peña sidelined, Mauricio Dubón has taken on the shortstop role, having started in the last two games against the Cubs. Dubón's versatility and prior performance could make him a valuable asset in Peña's absence.

The Houston Astros are on a five-game win streak, showcased by a recent 7-4 victory over the Chicago Cubs. Shortstop Jeremy Peña, who had a stellar 2022 season, suffered a minor injury after being hit by a pitch, leading to his exit in the fifth inning. Despite this setback, Peña had a solid start to 2025 with impressive batting stats, having slashed .324/.379/.492 with 11 home runs and 40 RBIs in 81 games. His absence was felt, but designated hitter Victor Caratini and catcher Yainer Diaz stepped up, with Diaz hitting a three-run homer to help secure the win.

Jeremy Pena, the Houston Astros' shortstop, is enjoying a breakout season, showcasing a .326 batting average and a stellar 4.6 WAR, which ranks second in the MLB behind only Aaron Judge. The Astros are keen to extend his contract, potentially worth around $100 million, but Pena has paused negotiations after switching to Scott Boras, a high-profile agent known for maximizing player contracts.

Pena's remarkable performance, which includes a 145 OPS+ significantly above his previous career highs, has heightened his value, making an extension with the Astros a challenging negotiation. Veteran teammate Jose Altuve has emphasized the need to secure Pena long-term, expressing surprise that a deal hasn't already been finalized. With Pena's potential to become a superstar, the stakes are high for both the player and the franchise.

Jake Burger has been placed on the 10-day injured list by the Texas Rangers due to a left oblique strain sustained during a recent swing. This marks the third consecutive season where Burger has faced a side injury, prompting concerns about his long-term durability. Despite this setback, he remains optimistic about a quick recovery, aiming to return on the 11th day.

With Burger sidelined, Ezequiel Duran will step in as the primary first baseman, while Justin Foscue has been recalled from Triple-A to join the roster. Nathan Eovaldi and Jon Gray are also making strides in their recovery from injuries; Eovaldi is expected to rejoin the rotation soon, boasting a stellar ERA of 1.56 this season. Furthermore, Wyatt Lankford continues to deal with back spasms but is anticipated to return shortly.