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.