The defending World Series champion Houston Astros have arrived at spring training and are ready to begin their title defense.
One man in particular had himself a solid postseason.
Jeremy Pena had a tall order, replacing Astros legend Carlos Correa at the shortstop position.
All he did was beat out Correa for a Gold Glove and earn ALCS and World Series MVP honors.
Pena was one of many Astros stars who reported to camp today.
Astros fans are certainly excited to see him in action again.
On Twitter, MLB posted a brief clip of him greeting fans and signing autographs as he entered the Astros spring training complex.
The champ is here. 👀 pic.twitter.com/KY5SjtgBhp
—MLB (@MLB) February 16, 2023
Pena appears to be ready to go, as do the Astros.
The Astros will have the target on their backs heading into the 2023 season as they look to defend their second World Series title.
There was some slight turnover with the team.
Reigning American League Cy Young Justin Verlander and first baseman Yuli Gurriel are both no longer with the team.
Also, Jose Abreu was added to their already prolific lineup and will take over for Gurriel at first base.
But most of the 2022 team is still around, and that includes Pena.
The slugger hit .253 with 22 home runs, 63 RBI, 11 stolen bases, 72 runs scored, and an OPS of .715.
But it was the postseason where he shined the most.
He hit for a .353 average and popped two home runs during the ALCS, then posted a .400 mark for the World Series, as well as hit another home run.
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