Spring training is often a time for experimentation and adjustments, but for the Houston Astros, two recent games have highlighted a growing concern heading into the 2026 season — the offense.
With Opening Day approaching, Houston has struggled to generate runs in several spring matchups. The Astros are currently below .500 in Grapefruit League play and have been shut out twice, raising questions about whether last season’s offensive issues could carry into the new year.
Shutouts bring back late-season memories
Sep 20, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Astros shortstop Jeremy Pena (3) reacts after a play during the sixth inning against the Seattle Mariners at Daikin Park | Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
Houston’s scoring drought is particularly concerning because it mirrors a troubling trend from late in the 2025 season.
During the final weeks of last year’s AL West race, the Astros were shut out eight times, a stretch that ultimately contributed to them falling short of the division title.
So far this spring, similar struggles have reappeared.
One of the shutouts came against the New York Mets, when Houston managed only two hits while striking out 15 times as a team.
Another scoreless performance followed against the Miami Marlins, where the Astros’ lineup produced almost no contact.
Contact issues continue
Mar 1, 2026; Port St. Lucie, Florida, USA; Houston Astros second baseman Jose Altuve (27) steals second base as New York Mets third baseman Vidal Brujan (2) gathers the late throw at Clover Park. | Jim Rassol-Imagn Images
In the game against Miami, only one Astros hitter recorded a hit — outfielder Zach Cole.
Even that highlight offered limited reassurance. The hit was just Cole’s second in seven spring games, leaving him batting below .200 so far in camp.
The lack of consistent contact throughout the lineup has made it difficult for Houston to build offensive momentum during games.
If the Astros want to return to playoff contention in 2026, solving that issue quickly will be essential.
Familiar names still searching for rhythm
Several key players have yet to find their timing at the plate during spring training.
José Altuve, long the offensive heartbeat of the franchise, is still working to shake off the struggles that surfaced late last season. After the 2025 All-Star break, every part of his offensive slash line declined.
Through his first 15 plate appearances this spring, Altuve has collected just two hits, leaving the Astros hoping his production rebounds before the regular season begins.
Jeremy Peña injury adds another complication
Houston’s offensive concerns have been compounded by injury issues.
Shortstop Jeremy Peña is currently dealing with a broken finger, raising uncertainty about whether he will be ready for the Astros’ season opener later this month.
Even before the injury, Peña had struggled at the plate during spring training, batting below .200.
Losing a key defensive leader — and potentially a lineup contributor — so close to Opening Day would make Houston’s offensive outlook even more complicated.
Spring results aren’t everything — but trends matter
Spring training results don’t always translate directly into regular-season performance. Teams often prioritize evaluating players, testing lineups, and managing workloads rather than winning games.
However, the Astros’ recent scoreless outings highlight an issue that has persisted since the end of last season.
If Houston hopes to return to the AL West race or push for another postseason appearance, the offense must find its rhythm quickly.
With manager Joe Espada still working to finalize the lineup and roster, the next few weeks of spring training will be critical.
The Astros have time to adjust — but the clock is ticking as Opening Day approaches.
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