Carlos Correa wanted to return, but his ankle wasn't ready. He explains the 'really tough' shutdown

Carlos Correa had intentions to return to the Houston Astros this season, but ultimately his ankle tendon was not ready for him to play. Correa, who suffered a peroneus brevis tendon tear in his left ankle in May, had made significant progress in his rehabilitation. He had participated in live batting practice and run the bases at the Astros' minor-league facility in West Palm Beach, Florida, without any issues.

He even went as far as facing live pitching for the first time since his surgery on August 1. Despite feeling great and seeing the ball well, Correa realized that his surgically repaired tendon was not mature enough for him to play. A subsequent MRI confirmed that his ankle tendon needed more time to heal. Astros manager Joe Espada announced on Tuesday that Correa would not return this year and focus on being healthy for the 2027 season.

Correa understood the decision and accepted it, stating that he would give his best effort and move on to be ready for next year.