Along with optioning left-handed relief pitcher Matt Gage to Triple-A Sugar Land, the Houston Astros reassigned three prospects to minor league camp Tuesday. Right-handed pitcher Devin Conn, outfielder Marty Costes and catcher C.J. Stubbs wrapped up their respective time in Major League camp.
Through six Grapefruit League appearances, Conn surrendered five runs on five hits and five walks. Those five runs didn’t cross until his sixth outing Friday against the Washington Nationals. He also punched out four batters in his first six outings. As of Tuesday, Costes played in 10 spring games, going 8-for-22 with two RBI, one walk and one strikeout. The 27 year old also stole two bases on three attempts.
Stubbs posted a consistent spring training at the plate, while offering depth to Team Israel in the World Baseball Classic. In his first year as a non-roster invitee, he went 7-for-13 with one home run, four RBI, two walks and two strikeouts. His lone extra-base hit through 10 appearances came March 7 in the form of a game-tying, three-run home run. The catcher also played 12 innings at first base in the Grapefruit League.
The Astros listed Gage and Conn as potential relievers for Tuesday’s contest against the Miami Marlins. The Major League roster is now at 41 players.
