HOUSTON (AP) - The Houston Astros re-signed second baseman Jason Smith, four days after he was designated for assignment.
General manager Ed Wade announced the move Sunday before the Astros played host to the San Diego Padres.Smith was designated for assignment May 6 to make room for Alberto Arias. Smith cleared waivers, rejected his outright assignment and elected free agency. He then re-signed as an unrestricted free agent.
In a corresponding move, the team optioned RHP Jeff Fulchino to Triple-A Round Rock.
The 31-year-old Smith appeared in 17 games with three starts at the beginning of the season. He was hitless in 21 at-bats.
Fulchino has a 5.91 ERA with no record in eight relief appearances over two stints for the Astros.
