Houston Astros decide Jose Altuve will not play in the 2026 World Baseball Classic despite his intent to play

The Houston Astros have decided Jose Altuve will not play for Venezuela in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, even though the veteran infielder said he wanted to participate. The decision is tied to concerns over injury risk, lingering health issues, and the impact of his 2023 WBC thumb fracture on Houston’s season.

Houston Astros decide Jose Altuve will not play in the 2026 World Baseball Classic despite his intent to play
The Houston Astros have decided Jose Altuve will not play for Venezuela in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, even though the veteran infielder said he wanted to participate. The decision is tied to concerns over injury risk, lingering health issues, and the impact of his 2023 WBC thumb fracture on Houston’s season.