Astros' Peña has finger fracture, likely out of WBC

Houston Astros shortstop Jeremy Peña likely can't play in the World Baseball Classic, and his status for Opening Day is also murky due to injury.

Peña was diagnosed with a fracture in the tip of his right ring finger and will be re-evaluated in two weeks, the Astros said Thursday, according to Chandler Rome of The Athletic.

The 2025 All-Star was slated to be the Dominican Republic's starting shortstop in the WBC, but he was injured while fielding a ground ball during Wednesday's exhibition game.

The Dominicans' first game is Friday against Nicaragua. The tournament runs until March 17.

Peña would have to recover in three weeks to be ready for the start of the MLB season March 26.

Isaac Paredes, who has been the subject of trade talks this offseason, would have a larger role if Peña isn't ready for the opener, according to Rome.

Paredes could play third base with Carlos Correa moving back to short to cover Peña's absence.