Brett Wallace released

The Astros have officially severed ties with Brett Wallace. The 27-year old first baseman who cleared waivers last month was officially released earlier today.

In camp making one last push to salvage his career as an Astro, Wallace just couldn’t quite get over the hump. In 14 spring at-bats Wallace managed only two singles while striking a total of out eight times.

Wallace needed a strong spring to get back on the Astros 40-man roster. Instead, he becomes the first casualty in the battle for playing time at first base. Second year player Marc Krauss has been the hottest hitter in camp, making Wallace easily expendable.

Many Astros fans had a love-hate relationship with Wallace over the last four years. First, they loved him and wondered why he didn’t get more playing time. They took to the internet begging #FreeBrettWallace. Then, when increased playing time eventually turned into a ton of strikeouts, they went the opposite direction.

The Astros gave Wallace every opportunity to get his game on track. Unfortunately, it just didn’t happen. Chances are he will catch on with another team and work his way back to the big leagues. At some point, we will probably see Jeff Luhnow’s former first round pick playing in Houston again. Only this time, he’ll be wearing a different uniform.

Brett Wallace (Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports)