NEW YORK, NY - NOVEMBER 10: Jeremy Pena #3 of the Houston Astros during the visit to MLB Headquarters at MLB Headquarters on Thursday, November 10, 2022 in New York, New York.
Daniel Shirey/MLB Photos via Getty ImagesAn emerging Houston sports celebrity was on hand to help energize the NRG Stadium crowd prior to Sunday's game between the Houston Texans and Cleveland Browns.
Houston Astros shortstop and 2022 World Series MVP Jeremy Peña was front and center for the pregame festivities, leading a "Houston Texans" chant while banging the battle drum just before kickoff. A raucous ovation was evoked from those in attendance when the star rookie was introduced, something that's become a rare occurrence at NRG Stadium amid the Texans' dismal play in recent years.
Unfortunately for the Texans, Peña's presence didn't bring good luck their way—at least immediately. Houston quarterback Kyle Allen was intercepted on the first play from scrimmage, though the Texans did score the game's first points on a field goal later in the first quarter.
Sunday's appearance at NRG Stadium was just the latest instance of Peña's quick rise to becoming one of the city's most beloved modern-day athletes. Cars lined up in droves to watch him serve food at a Raising Cane's drive-thru last month, and he's also been fitted for a grill by iconic Houston jeweler Johnny Dang. This followed a massive and emotional response to Peña at the Astros' World Series victory parade, during which he drew louder cheers than arguably any player on the team.
Peña became the first rookie position player to be named the World Series MVP following Houston's Game 6 win over the Philadelphia Phillies, and was the first rookie shortstop to earn championship MVP honors for his performance in an ALCS sweep of the New York Yankees.
As he prepares for his second year in the big leagues, Peña also provided his thoughts on the Astros' recent offseason moves and other topics.