Three Astros Recognized as All-Stars: A Season of Breakouts, Redemption, and Emotional Moments
The Houston Astros received a major boost of recognition over the weekend as three of their top performers were selected for the 2025 MLB All-Star Game. Shortstop Jeremy Peña, starting pitcher Hunter Brown, and closer Josh Hader will all represent the American League when the midsummer showcase takes place July 15 at Truist Field in Atlanta. The announcement came just before the Astros’ final game against the Dodgers in Los Angeles, with manager Joe Espada gathering the team to share the news in a meeting that quickly turned emotional and unforgettable.
For Peña and Brown, it marks their first-ever selection to the All-Star Game—an enormous career milestone for two players developed through the Astros’ own system. Both debuted during the 2022 season and have now firmly established themselves as key contributors to one of the American League’s best teams. Meanwhile, Hader, a seasoned veteran with multiple All-Star nods in his past, adds a sixth appearance to his résumé—his first since joining Houston as a free agent ahead of the 2024 season.
Peña, 27, was off to a career-best season before being sidelined on June 28 due to a fractured rib suffered from a hit-by-pitch. Even so, his numbers heading into that date placed him among the league’s best. He ranked third in batting average (.322) among AL players, was tied for fifth in stolen bases (15), and had racked up 102 hits to go with a personal-best .867 OPS. Those stats made it impossible for league and player voters to overlook his impact.
His remarkable leap this year is largely thanks to an offseason focused on reinventing his swing. Peña worked closely with former Astros shortstop Carlos Correa and Correa’s training team to shorten and refine his swing mechanics. The improvements led to noticeable reductions in strikeouts and chased pitches, while boosting his hard-hit rate to new highs. “It was one of my biggest personal goals,” Peña said. “It means everything to be recognized, especially knowing the hard work that went in.”
Espada elevated Peña to the leadoff spot in late April, and it transformed the top of the Astros’ lineup. In 55 games batting first, Peña hit an incredible .354 with a .941 OPS, injecting life into a Houston offense that had started the season slow. Even now, though currently injured, Peña hasn’t given up hope of participating in the All-Star Game. “I’d love to play, but I just don’t know yet,” he admitted. “It’s day-by-day. I’m trying to heal the right way.”
Hunter Brown, 26, has arguably been the breakout pitcher of the season in either league. Heading into the weekend, Brown had a 9–3 record and an MLB-leading ERA of 1.82. He also led qualified starters in limiting opposing batters’ average and was one of the top strikeout artists in the American League. His ERA through 17 starts is among the lowest in Astros history, ranking alongside legendary names like Verlander, Ryan, and Clemens.
Brown’s path to dominance has been a combination of raw talent, refined mechanics, and relentless dedication. After reshaping his pitch mix and enhancing his game-planning approach this season, he became nearly untouchable. “When you’re young, you dream of just making it to the big leagues,” Brown said. “Now, to be going to the All-Star Game—it’s really humbling.”
Espada credited Brown’s mindset and competitive spirit for his incredible first half. “He wants the ball, he’s always prepared, and he battles,” the manager said. “He’s become one of the most reliable arms in the game because he made adjustments and trusted the process.”
Houston’s rotation has been battered by injuries in 2025, but the combination of Brown and Hader has stabilized the staff. With a team ERA of 3.51—tied for third-lowest in the majors—the Astros’ pitching has remained elite. And while Brown hasn’t yet confirmed whether he hopes to start the All-Star Game, his performance certainly makes him a strong candidate.
Then there’s Josh Hader, who joined the Astros on a five-year, $95 million contract and is living up to every dollar. Hader entered Sunday a perfect 25-for-25 in save opportunities, setting a franchise record for consecutive saves to start a season. His strikeout numbers, opponents’ average, and walk rate all rank among the best for major league relievers.
Hader has also evolved this season, throwing his slider more than ever—up to 40% of the time—to keep hitters off balance. The increased mix has made his signature fastball even more dangerous. “The game’s about adjustments,” Hader said. “People have seen my fastball for years, so now it’s about using my secondaries better. It’s made a huge difference.”
Off the field, Hader’s excitement was elevated by knowing his 3-year-old son, Lucas, would likely be old enough to remember this All-Star trip. “Last year in Seattle, he slept through the Home Run Derby,” Hader laughed. “This time will be special.”
The moment the All-Star trio was announced became even more memorable thanks to Hader’s perfectly timed late arrival. As Espada announced the final name in the meeting, Hader walked in—causing his teammates to erupt. “I had no idea what was going on,” he smiled. “I guess the timing couldn’t have been better.”
Though none of the three Astros were voted in by fans as starters, the selections by the league and players reflect the respect they’ve earned from peers around baseball. As the Astros eye another deep postseason run, the All-Star selections offer more than individual accolades—they highlight a team built on depth, chemistry, and a shared drive to win.
Whether Peña recovers in time to play remains to be seen, but what’s certain is this: the Astros will be well represented in Atlanta, not just by numbers, but by the stories of three players who’ve risen—through growth, grit, and resilience—to the top of their game.
