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last mo.

Astros Finalize Opening Day Roster With Jeremy Peña Active

Houston gains its All-Star shortstop back with timing still the focus.

In one of their biggest remaining roster decisions, the Astros went with veteran Christian Vázquez, who just played for Team Puerto Rico in the WBC, to be their backup catcher.
Image
Feb 21, 2026; West Palm Beach, Florida, USA; Brice Matthews (0) of the Houston Astros loses his helmet swinging at a pitch in the fifth inning against the Washington Nationals at CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches. Mandatory Credit: Jim Rassol-Imagn Images
Feb 24, 2026; Port St. Lucie, Florida, USA; Houston Astros shortstop Jeremy Pena (3) looks on against the New York Mets during the first inning at Clover Park. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

Overview

  • Jeremy Peña made the Astros’ Opening Day roster Wednesday after recovering from a fractured right ring fingertip sustained March 4.
  • Following Tuesday’s exhibition return against Triple-A Sugar Land, he went 1-for-4 with a 394-foot two-run homer while playing shortstop.
  • Peña said the finger feels good and that building back timing through more at-bats is his main hurdle.
  • Prospect Brice Matthews won a utility spot over Zach Cole, as Houston added catcher Christian Vázquez and right-hander Christian Roa to the 40-man roster and designated César Salazar for assignment.
  • Several pitchers opened on the injured list, including closer Josh Hader, and ESPN reported Bryan Abreu will close as the Astros host the Angels on Thursday.