Mon Jul 14 16:50:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the provided text:
**Astros’ Paredes Withdraws from All-Star Game Due to Family Matter, Joining List of Houston Absences**
**HOUSTON** – Houston Astros third baseman Isaac Paredes will not participate in Tuesday’s MLB All-Star Game in Atlanta, citing a family matter. Manager Joe Espada announced the news Sunday, stating that Paredes is expected to rejoin the team in time for their series opener in Seattle on Friday.
Paredes, named as a late replacement for Cleveland Guardians’ José Ramírez, was set to represent the Astros at the Midsummer Classic, which will be held at Truist Park in Atlanta. Ramírez declined to participate in order to recover and focus on the second half of the season.
Paredes is having a strong season, hitting .257 with a team-leading 19 home runs and 49 RBIs. He went 2-for-4 in Sunday’s loss to the Rangers, nearly adding two more home runs to his tally with a pair of doubles.
Paredes’ absence compounds the Astros’ representation at the All-Star Game. Shortstop Jeremy Peña, also named to the team for the first time, is currently on the injured list with a fractured rib. Right-hander Hunter Brown is ineligible to pitch in the game after starting Sunday’s game against the Rangers. Despite not being able to play, Peña and Brown are expected to travel to Atlanta.
Closer Josh Hader remains the Astros’ sole active All-Star participant. Hader, selected for his sixth All-Star Game (his first in the American League), is coming off a dominant June in which he earned AL Relief Pitcher of the Month honors. Despite blowing his first save of the season on Saturday, he boasts a strong track record and remains a key asset for the Astros.
Peña’s absence is particularly felt, as he had been enjoying a stellar season before his injury. Slashing .322/.378/.489 with 11 home runs and 15 stolen bases.
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