The Houston Astros are cutting it close.
Houston Astros shortstop Jeremy Pena (3) looks on | Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
With Opening Day just days away, the team has yet to finalize its roster — an unusual delay that points to one lingering question.
Everything depends on Jeremy Peña.
The Astros’ shortstop is still working his way back from a finger injury suffered earlier this month during World Baseball Classic preparations. While he has resumed swinging, his availability for the season opener remains uncertain.
And until that decision is made, everything else is on hold.
Most of the roster is already set.
By all indications, 11 of the 13 position player spots have been locked in. Joey Loperfido appears to have secured his place, even if some questions remain about his long-term role.
That leaves one — or possibly two — openings.
At the center of that battle are Zach Cole and Brice Matthews, two players with very different profiles and paths to the roster.
Cole offers familiarity and some late-season momentum from 2025. But there’s a clear concern that continues to follow him — strikeouts.
The numbers are hard to ignore.
He struck out in over 35% of his minor league plate appearances last season, and that rate climbed even higher during his brief major league stint. This spring hasn’t offered much improvement, with strikeouts continuing to pile up at an alarming rate.
That kind of swing-and-miss profile makes him a risky option, especially for a team trying to regain consistency after a disappointing season.
Matthews, on the other hand, has made a strong case.
His spring performance has been well-rounded, showing on-base ability, speed, and versatility. He’s contributed offensively while also adding value on the bases, giving the Astros a different kind of weapon.
There’s also a strategic angle.
Matthews provides a right-handed complement to Loperfido, helping balance the lineup. And while his experience in the outfield is limited, the Astros have shown a willingness to develop players on the fly — something they’ve successfully done in the past.
That flexibility could work in his favor.
If Peña is ready for Opening Day, Houston will likely have to choose between Cole and Matthews for the final spot.
If he’s not, both players could make the roster — at least temporarily.
But even in that scenario, the broader question remains.
Who gives the Astros the best chance to compete right now?
Based on performance and fit, Matthews appears to have the edge. His ability to impact the game in multiple ways aligns with what Houston needs, especially as they look to avoid another slow start.
Cole’s path is less clear.
The power potential is there, but until the strikeout issue is addressed, his role may be limited.
For now, the Astros are waiting.
One player’s health will determine the final pieces of their roster — and potentially shape how they begin a season that already carries significant pressure.
Because in Houston, even the last roster spot feels like it matters more than usual.
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