Overview

• Peña logged his first rehab game as designated hitter Tuesday and handled shortstop duties Wednesday for Triple-A Sugar Land.
• Manager Joe Espada said Peña felt good after an off-day and could rejoin Houston’s roster on Friday in Boston, pending medical clearance.
• Javier is set for a fourth rehab start tonight with a 55–60 pitch limit, marking a key benchmark before he returns to the Astros’ rotation.
• With five Opening Day starters on the injured list, Houston has leaned on depth pieces like Mauricio Dubón and Taylor Trammell to maintain its AL West lead.
• The club’s ability to integrate returning players via structured Triple-A assignments will be critical as the trade deadline approaches and the postseason nears.