Report: Altuve won't participate in WBC at Astros' request

Jose Altuve won't play for Venezuela at the 2026 World Baseball Classic at the request of the Houston Astros, a source told MLB.com's Brian McTaggart.

Altuve had expressed interest in joining Venezuela's roster, which is being managed by Astros bench coach Omar López, but Houston prefers that the 35-year-old attend spring training to prepare for the upcoming MLB season, McTaggart adds.

"I signed the paper that I'm willing to go play, like I did the last two WBCs," Altuve told reporters Saturday, including Michael Shapiro of the Houston Chronicle. "Always an honor to represent my country. I played in the last one and the one before, and I'm trying to do it in this one.

"I don't know what's going on behind the scenes, but it seems this year is not up to me. Hopefully everything clears up and I'll be able to go."

The Astros' decision comes after Altuve fractured his right thumb on a hit-by-pitch during the 2023 WBC. He underwent surgery for the injury and missed 43 major-league games that year.

He also underwent a procedure in November to correct a foot issue. Altuve, who has appeared in 308 games over the past two seasons, is expected to be at full health this spring.