Houston Astros Speed-Demon Prospect Undergoes Surgery

One of the top prospects in the Houston Astros organization will miss most of spring training after undergoing an urgent surgery. 

Pedro León had sports hernia surgery on Tuesday, according to the Astros. He is expected to miss "approximately six to eight weeks."

— Chandler Rome (@Chandler_Rome) January 19, 2023

Speedy infielder/outfielder Pedro León had sports hernia surgery this past week, according to the Astros. He is expected to miss "approximately six to eight weeks."

That time frame, while it'll cost him a huge chunk of spring training, could have him ready for close to the start of the regular season. The 24-year-old is projected by many to be ready to make the majors in 2023. 

In 115 games at Triple-A last season, he stole 38 bases, while hitting 17 home runs, posting an on-base percentage of .365 and an OPS of .796. 

He was initially a high-end international signing for the Astros and used in the middle infield in 2021, but he transitioned mostly to the outfield in 2022. MLB Pipeline lists him as the team's No. 4 prospect, and says he has the loudest tools in the Houston system. Good bat speed, raw power, and a plus-runner. He'll quite likely challenge for a spot in the Houston outfield at some point in 2023 once he's recovered. 

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