Astros release Brady Rodgers after designating him for assignment

The Astros released pitcher Brady Rodgers after designating him for assignment on Thursday.

The Astros had to remove a player from the 40-man roster when they called up Abraham Toro on Thursday, and the roster casualty was pitcher Brady Rodgers. Consequently, the Astros released Rodgers after designating him for assignment.

Given that the trade deadline has passed, the Astros could not trade Rodgers, and they could not place him on outright waivers as he is currently on the minor league injured list. Releasing him was the only option the Astros had once designating him for assignment.

This means Rodgers is now a free agent and can sign with any club. It’s possible the Richmond, TX native re-signs with the Astros on a minor league deal, but it’s also possible he goes to a club that gives him more of an opportunity to establish himself in the big leagues.

The Long and Winding Road

The Astros drafted Rodgers in the third round back in 2012 out of Arizona State. He worked his way up through the system before breaking out at Triple-A in 2016 to the tune of a 12-4 record and 2.86 ERA in 22 starts. He also made his major league debut that year, but was unsuccessful.

He started out with a 1.10 ERA in his first three Triple-A starts in 2017 before hitting the shelf, and he wouldn’t pitch again that year thanks to Tommy John surgery. He’s since been working his way back, but hasn’t been able to completely return to form.

He returned in 2018 to make eight starts at Triple-A and posted a 5.49 ERA. He pitched reasonably well this year (4-0, 3.83 ERA in eight starts and two relief appearances) at Round Rock but again got roughed up in a short big league stint. He also hasn’t pitched for Round Rock since July 2 thanks to further injuries.

At age 28, Rodgers is no longer really a prospect, but given his success at Triple-A and lack of significant experience in the majors, it’s possible a pitching-needy team could give him a shot. He still has time to carve out a major league career for himself, and here’s hoping he’ll be able to.