The Houston Astros are looking forward to having one of their most familiar and talented players back in the lineup: Carlos Correa, the projected starting third baseman for Opening Day 2026. After returning to Houston via trade from the Minnesota Twins on July 31, 2025, Correa was welcomed back to Houston with open arms by the fanbase and the organization. Despite leaving the team on his own terms, he was greeted as if he had never left.
In 2012, Carlos Correa was selected by the Astros as the first overall draft pick and began his professional career in the Astros' minor league system. He had a stellar rookie season in 2015, playing 99 games with a .279 batting average, 22 doubles, 22 home runs, 68 RBIs, 14 stolen bases, and an .857 OPS, earning American League Rookie of the Year honors, per MLB.
Correa has accumulated countless accolades in Houston, including multiple All-Star selections, a Gold Glove in 2021, and a Platinum Glove, recognizing him as the best defensive player in all of MLB. He was also an important contributor to the 2017 World Series championship, batting .276 with five home runs and 14 RBIs in the postseason, including a home run in Game 2 of the World Series.
After spending three seasons with the Minnesota Twins, Correa returned to Houston in 2025, eager to take on third base, a position he had expressed interest in. His return provides the Astros with both leadership and elite talent, as well as veteran presence in the clubhouse, giving younger players someone to look up to and learn from. Correa’s experience and versatility make him a key figure for the team’s 2026 success. The Astros are navigating a logjam at third base, with Correa competing for starts alongside Isaac Paredes.
Unfortunately, Correa will not participate in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, even after a generous offer from fellow Puerto Rican Bad Bunny to cover insurance. Prioritizing his health and guaranteed MLB contract, Correa chose to focus on spring training and preparation for Opening Day, ensuring he will be ready to contribute at the start of the season.
With his proven track record, leadership, and familiar presence, along with the excitement of being back in Houston, Carlos Correa is set to be a cornerstone of the Astros’ lineup at third base in 2026, giving fans another reason to be excited for Opening Day.