The Houston Astros received encouraging news on Jeremy Peña after the shortstop exited Tuesday’s 7-0 win over the Seattle Mariners.
Peña was hit on the hand by a pitch during his 29th birthday, forcing him to leave the game for further evaluation. After the shutout win, manager Joe Espada said X-rays on Peña’s hand were negative.
Peña was able to contribute before leaving, recording a hit and scoring a run as Houston kept its postseason hopes alive with the victory.
The negative X-rays provide some relief for the Astros, although the team will continue to monitor Peña after the hit. No further diagnosis or timetable was announced following the game.
Peña has been an important part of Houston’s lineup and infield throughout the season. He entered Tuesday batting .275 with a .325 on-base percentage, a .472 slugging percentage, 20 home runs, 19 doubles and 51 RBIs in 107 games.
Yordan Alvarez also played a major role in the win, hitting his 40th home run of the season and driving in three runs. The Astros’ offense helped provide plenty of support while the pitching staff completed the shutout.
The Astros also had two other injury concerns during the game. Brice Matthews aggravated his left knee while making a diving catch after recently returning from the injured list, while Cristian Javier experienced groin tightness on the final pitch of his relief appearance.
Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
For Houston, however, Peña’s hand will remain the immediate concern. The Astros are entering the final week of the regular season with their postseason hopes still alive, making the shortstop’s status something to watch closely.
The negative X-rays were an encouraging first step, but Houston will have to see how Peña responds before determining when he can return to the lineup.
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