How injured Carlos Correa could return to Astros' lineup in 2026

The Houston Astros could be getting their three-time All-Star back much sooner than expected. In May, it was ruled that shortstop/third baseman Carlos Correa would miss the remainder of the season after he underwent ankle surgery. However, Correa is doing his best to return to the AL West club this season. "I wouldn't be doing all this work if I didn't think there was a chance," Correa told reporters last Tuesday. The Astros are 40-28 in their last 68 games. They started the season 20-31 through their first 51 contests. Now, the AL West crown is in Houston's sights.If he's able to return to the field, Correa could help the Astros in the postseason. But his fit on the roster is imperfect, writes ESPN's Alden Gonzalez. "It's still a flawed roster, though, and Correa isn't an ideal fit. Yorda