Carlos Correa Ruled Out for Remainder of Astros' 2026 Season

Manager Joe Espada announced Tuesday that Carlos Correa will not rejoin the Astros this year due to ankle inflammation, ending his comeback attempt.

Houston Astros shortstop Carlos Correa will not return for the remainder of the 2026 season, manager Joe Espada announced Tuesday. The decision follows a flare-up of inflammation in Correa’s left ankle, which underwent surgery on May 11. Although the 31-year-old was expected to begin a rehabilitation assignment with Triple-A Sugar Land this week, the team has opted to shift his focus toward spring training in 2027.

Correa finishes his 2026 campaign with a .279 batting average, three home runs, and 16 RBI. Before the injury, he had transitioned back to shortstop to cover for Jeremy Pena, who was sidelined with a hamstring issue. The Astros currently hold a one-game lead over the Texas Rangers for first place in the AL West as they enter a Tuesday night matchup against the Kansas City Royals.

Espada noted that the inflammation occurred as Correa increased his activity levels, including base running and hitting on the field. The manager indicated that the shortstop would not be available even if Houston makes a deep postseason run, citing significant difficulty for Correa to get moving in the mornings. Correa is under contract with salaries of $31.5 million this year, $30.5 million in 2027, and $30 million in 2028, with the Minnesota Twins contributing $10 million annually through the end of that term as part of last summer's trade agreement.