The 2026 World Baseball Classic is underway, and three of the four groups began pool play on March 6. It was an interesting day, defined by mammoth performances. However, several notable WBC players were dealing with injuries, including an Astros infielder who is back in Florida after he fractured a finger.

Chourio is a no-go for Venezuela

Brewers outfielder Jackson Chourio did not play in Venezuela‘s win against the Netherlands on March 6.

Chourio is recovering from a wrist bruise, suffered after he was hit by a pitch in the country’s exhibition game against the Nationals on the 4th.

Pena discusses injury

Astros shortstop Jeremy Pena suffered a fractured finger this past week, which forced him off the Dominican Republic roster for the 2026 World Baseball Classic. But on top of that, Pena is now in danger of missing regular-season time.

He spoke to the media on March 6 regarding his injury. The Astros infielder believed that it was a broken nail that he suffered. But after the imaging was done, a fracture was revealed.

“Tough…It’s part of the game. Injuries are a part of the game, and I wish I was out there playing with the guys [in the WBC].”

Pena added that there is no timetable for a return. However, he will be active, sprinting, and getting strong to build up towards a return.

Carroll taking live at-bats

Diamondbacks outfielder Corbin Carroll took another step forward in his recovery from hamate bone surgery.

Carroll took live at-bats in Arizona on March 6, a positive sign just three weeks before Opening Day.

Other notes

Twins outfielder Byron Buxton came out of the USA’s game against Brazil after he was hit by a pitch in the Americans’ opening game of the WBC.

Giants outfielder Jung Hoo Lee suffered a tweaked ankle in Korea’s game against Czechia, per the team. The organization doesn’t believe that Lee will miss time.

Angels outfielder Josh Lowe took dry swings on March 6, as he recovers from an oblique injury.

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