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Over the past week, the Houston Astros have designated three pitchers for assignment. This was in part to bring in new players to the 40-man roster, along with activating Josh James from the injured list. Although Ralph Garza Jr. and Nivaldo Rodriguez have minor-league options, their roster spots were needed for pitchers with higher ceilings.
These two are now exposed to waivers, leaving them vulnerable of being snatched by other teams across the league. If they clear waivers, they will be outrighted to Triple-A Sugar Land, but with Ryan Hartman being claimed after his DFA, the chances are slim that the Astros retain both Garza Jr.