Jun 26, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Astros shortstop Jeremy Pena (3) hits a single against the Philadelphia Phillies during the third inning at Daikin Park. Erik Williams-Imagn Images

Houston Astros Slugger Forced to Leave Game After Being Hit by Pitch

Originally posted on Houston Astros on SI
By Nick Ziegler | Last updated Jun 27, 2025 10:12 PM ET

As the Houston Astros start up a massive series against the Chicago Cubs, they saw one of their stars get injured early on Friday.

It has been a great run of late for the Astros. Coming into the weekend series with the Cubs, this is a team that has been playing very well led by a great top of the rotation and one of the best bullpens in baseball.

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Anticipation was certainly high for the series against Chicago with it being the return of both Ryan Pressly and Kyle Tucker to Houston.

However, early in the game, the Astros saw one of their star players, shortstop Jeremy Peña, get hit by a pitch, which later forced him to leave the game prematurely, as reported by outlets covering the game in Houston, including The Athletic.

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Jeremy Peña left the game with "left rib soreness" caused by a hit by pitch, according to the Astros.
— Chandler Rome (@Chandler_Rome) June 28, 2025

It is a bit concerning to see Peña have to exit early, especially with it being a bit of a delay from when he was hit. His injury was determined to be left rib soreness.

Peña has been the best hitter for Houston throughout the year with a lot of the talented veterans around him struggling.

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The young shortstop has come into his own, and even though he is a former World Series MVP, it appears like he is now becoming a star.

Hopefully, this is more of a precaution than anything for Peña and the Astros. If he was forced to miss some time, the lineup of Houston would be in significant trouble considering he leads them in most offensive categories.

For more Astros news, head over to Astros On SI.

This article first appeared on Houston Astros on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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