MLB

Jose Altuve sends strong message to Astros’ GM and owner about Jeremy Peña

Among the most respected veteran voices in the Houston Astros clubhouse, Jose Altuve continues to carry major influence — and this time, he used his platform to send a clear message to team leadership about Jeremy Peña.

Jose Altuve #27 of the Houston Astros reacts after a strike out during the eighth inning against the Los Angeles Angels at Daikin Park on April 12, 2025 in Houston, Texas.
© Getty ImagesJose Altuve #27 of the Houston Astros reacts after a strike out during the eighth inning against the Los Angeles Angels at Daikin Park on April 12, 2025 in Houston, Texas.

Jose Altuve knows exactly what the Houston Astros need to stay competitive — and one of the biggest priorities is keeping their best players. One of those players is Jeremy Peña, and the Venezuelan star recently delivered a strong message in support of Peña, aimed directly at the team’s GM and owner.

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“He’s a very valuable player for us and I’m very surprised he’s not signing to a long-term deal with the Astros. He’s a guy you want on your team for the long term. Dana Brown and Mr. Crane need to start working on it,” Altuve said about Peña’s future, which remains uncertain without a solid long-term contract.

It’s worth noting that Peña is currently playing shortstop — a position Altuve once held before shifting to the outfield. Peña is playing under a one-year contract and has already proven himself as a key piece in the Astros‘ infield.

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What is Jeremy Peña’s current salary with the Astros?

By the end of the 2025 season, Peña is set to earn a total of $4.1 million, marking the largest contract of his young MLB career. Peña, who debuted with the Astros in 2022, had been earning less than $1 million per year through the 2024 season.

Jose Altuve #27 and Jeremy Peña #3 of the Houston Astros celebrate after their team defeated the New York Mets

HOUSTON, TEXAS – MARCH 27: Jose Altuve #27 and Jeremy Peña #3 of the Houston Astros celebrate after their team defeated the New York Mets 3-1 on Opening Day at Daikin Park on March 27, 2025 in Houston, Texas.

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In comparison, Jose Altuve is currently playing under a five-year, $125 million extension. Altuve will earn $25 million this season, and it’s worth remembering that by his fifth season with the Astros (2014), he had already secured a four-year, $12.5 million deal.

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Peña is off to a strong season

Peña is filling a critical role in the Astros’ infield, stepping into a spot where Altuve excelled for many years. So far, Peña has handled 241 innings at shortstop and has shown off a strong throwing arm, recording an 80.2 strength on throws across 118 attempts, according to Baseball Savant.

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