Houston Astros

Carlos Correa

SS

The Astros announced Wednesday that Correa won't be able to make it back before the end of the season because he couldn't handle the workload he took on while rehabbing his ankle, and the inflammation appears to be a consequence of overworking himself. The results of his tests didn't reveal any structural damage, however, so there's still a strong chance that he'll be ready to go by the time the 2027 season begins.

Brandon Walter

SP

Walter is one of three Astros starters in Florida rehabbing from Tommy John surgery, though Hayden Wesneski (elbow) and Ronel Blanco (elbow) are further along in their programs after undergoing procedures in May and June of last year, respectively. Both Wesneski and Blanco will have chances at returning from the 60-day injured list late in the season, but since he had his surgery Sept. 23, 2025, Walter isn't a realistic candidate to pitch until 2027. Walter's main focus will be building up toward facing live hitters by the end of the season with the aim of entering spring training with few restrictions, if any.

Joey Loperfido

LF

The expectation is that Loperfido will be delayed at the beginning of spring training, but it's unclear whether he will be ready to roll come Opening Day. Loperfido logged 121 plate appearances for the Astros in 2026, slashing .214/.311/.330 with just one home run. If healthy, the 27-year-old will compete for a spot on Houston's Opening Day roster.