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2w ago

Astros’ Peña and Walker Exit Game With Hamstring Cramp and Hip Tightness

Manager Joe Espada said the issues could clear in a day or two, a short-term concern that has prompted immediate depth checks as Ronel Blanco readies a Monday rotation return.

Jul 11, 2026; Arlington, Texas, USA; Houston Astros first baseman Christian Walker (8) celebrates hitting a double against the Texas Rangers during the ninth inning at Globe Life Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
Jul 11, 2026; Arlington, Texas, USA; Houston Astros shortstop Jeremy Pena (3) bats against the Texas Rangers during the first inning at Globe Life Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
Jeremy Pena, left, and Christian Walker, pictured earlier this season, both left Saturday's game early with injury issues.
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Overview

  • Both Jeremy Peña and Christian Walker left Saturday’s game against Baltimore after in‑at‑bat incidents with Peña diagnosed with a right hamstring cramp and Walker with right hip tightness.
  • The pair were omitted from Sunday’s starting lineup and Espada said he hoped the setbacks would be resolved in a day or two, though the club has not given detailed severity updates.
  • Peña has missed extended time this season with multiple lower‑body injuries, including a right hamstring strain in April and a left calf strain before the All‑Star break, limiting him to about half the season.
  • Walker has been an everyday player for Houston this year and underwent imaging on Friday after being hit by a pitch that showed no fracture, but his sudden hip tightness raised short‑term availability questions.
  • The Astros have signaled short‑term contingency planning by removing infielder Raynel Delgado from Triple‑A and will add right‑hander Ronel Blanco to the rotation on Monday to bolster a struggling staff.