Astros Designate César Salazar, Rhylan Thomas For Assignment
Key Points:
- The Astros signed LaMonte Wade Jr. to a major league deal, added catcher Collin Price to the roster, and reinstated outfielder Joey Loperfido from the injured list, optioning him to Triple-A.
- Outfielder Zach Cole was optioned to Triple-A, while catcher César Salazar and outfielder Rhylan Thomas were designated for assignment.
- Salazar, a longtime defensive catcher with limited offensive production, struggled recently and is expected to be placed on waivers, with the possibility of electing free agency if outrighted again.
- Collin Price, a promising 2022 sixth-round pick with strong offensive numbers in Triple-A and solid framing skills, was called up for the first time and could see more playing time in 2026.
- Rhylan Thomas, recently claimed off waivers but currently injured in Triple-A, will likely be released due to his minor league injury status preventing outright waivers.