BOSTON, Massachusetts — Houston Astros shortstop Jeremy Peña rejoined the team’s active roster Friday, August 1, 2025, after missing over a month due to a fractured rib. The All-Star infielder, sidelined since June 27, returns for the series opener against the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park.
Peña sustained the injury when a pitch struck his left rib cage during a game against the Chicago Cubs. Initial X-rays failed to detect the fracture, but subsequent MRI and CT scans confirmed a small break, landing him on the 10-day injured list. The Astros backdated the move to June 28, making Peña eligible for activation earlier, but the team opted for a cautious recovery approach.
The 27-year-old completed a brief rehab stint with Triple-A Sugar Land, playing two games this week. On Tuesday, Peña went 0-for-2 with two runs scored, a walk, and a hit-by-pitch, enduring another pitch graze to his elbow guard without further injury. Wednesday, he hit a home run, signaling readiness for major league action. Astros manager Joe Espada confirmed Peña felt strong post-rehab, paving the way for his activation.
Peña’s return bolsters Houston’s lineup, which struggled to a 12-13 record in July without him. Before the injury, Peña enjoyed a breakout season, earning his first All-Star nod. He led the Astros with a .322 batting average, .378 on-base percentage, and .489 slugging percentage through 82 games. His 11 home runs, 40 RBIs, and 15 stolen bases underscored his value as the team’s leadoff hitter.
Mauricio Dubón primarily filled in at shortstop during Peña’s absence, providing solid defense but modest offensive numbers. The Astros, have the American League’s third best record despite 15 players on the injured list, expect Peña’s bat and Gold Glove-caliber defense to spark their postseason push.
Peña expressed eagerness to return, having worked closely with the team’s medical staff to manage pain and regain mobility. He resumed baseball activities in mid-July, progressing from batting cage swings to live pitching and infield drills. His rehab games confirmed he could handle the physical demands of shortstop without discomfort.
The Astros open a three-game series against the Red Sox, with Peña slotting back into the leadoff spot. His return coincides with Houston’s acquisition of former Astros shortstop Carlos Correa via trade, adding depth to an infield navigating multiple injuries. The team aims to maintain its AL West lead of 4.5 games ahead of Seattle, with Peña’s offensive and defensive prowess back in the fold.
