Astros bench coach Omar López still doesn’t have a firm answer on whether José Altuve will play for Venezuela in the 2026 World Baseball Classic.
López said Altuve wants to play, but his availability will depend on how his recovery progresses after an offseason foot procedure. Astros general manager Dana Brown said Altuve has resumed offseason workouts and is “definitely feeling a lot better.”
Altuve’s most recent foot issue stemmed from discomfort late in the 2025 season. The procedure removed fluid from an area between two toes, and the club is monitoring how he responds as preparations ramp up for spring.
Altuve has played in previous World Baseball Classics, but his 2023 run ended early after he suffered a fractured thumb from a hit-by-pitch, which required surgery and caused him to miss the first 43 games of the MLB season.
If Altuve is cleared to participate, López said he would hit third and play second base for Venezuela.
López also acknowledged that Venezuela could face roster complications unrelated to injuries.
“The ones who decided not to participate has his reasons,” Lopez said. “It hurts and [its annoying], but they have their reasons.”
Venezuela will compete in Pool D at LoanDepot Park in Miami from March 6–11, facing the Dominican Republic, Netherlands, Nicaragua, and Israel. WBC rosters are due February 2, 2026.
