The Astros reinstated catcher Brian McCann from the 10-day disabled list and designated backstop Tim Federowicz for assignment on Friday.
McCann had been sidelined since May 29 with right knee soreness.
When a player's contract is designated for assignment -- often abbreviated "DFA" -- that player is immediately removed from his club's 40-man roster, and 25-man roster if he was on that as well. Within seven days of the transaction (it was previously 10 days), the player must either be traded, released or placed on irrevocable outright waivers.