The Astros are prioritizing health for the upcoming 2026 season. Since the 2025 season was flooded with injuries, keeping players healthy has become a top focus, and the team is taking clear steps to do just that.
The World Baseball Classic happens every few years, but because it starts right before the regular season, injury is always a concern. An injury during the WBC could force a key player to miss opening day, several early-season games, or, in the worst case, the entire season.
While the tournament is a chance for players to represent their home countries, it also carries significant risk. In 2023, José Altuve was hit by a pitch and missed 43 games. For teams, this raises the question should players represent their country or prioritize preparation for the regular season?
So far, it has been confirmed that two Astros stars will not participate this year. José Altuve has been asked by the club to sit out. Keeping him healthy is a priority, as his past WBC injuries have had a serious impact on the regular season. At present, Altuve is fully healthy, and the Astros want to avoid a repeat of those setbacks.
Carlos Correa will also miss the tournament. He was unable to secure injury insurance for his contract with Houston, and due to previous injuries, insurers deemed him a high risk. This would have left him to forfeit his salary if he were injured during the WBC.
While it is disappointing that these players cannot represent their countries, their absence highlights the Astros’ commitment to player health. Having Altuve and Correa ready, healthy, and strong on opening day is essential. An injury forcing Altuve to miss a quarter of the season is the last thing the team or fans want to see.
For Houston, the WBC is a mix of risk and reward. Players gain valuable experience while the team navigates spring training without some of its stars. For fans, it is a chance to see Astros players shine on the international stage and build excitement for the 2026 season.
Venezuela will compete in the 2026 World Baseball Classic without José Altuve, and Puerto Rico will have to compete without Carlos Correa. However, Altuve may still get the chance to watch his teammates, and if they advance to the knockout rounds, he could cheer them on at Daikin Park.