Here's the latest from Houston, as the Astros prepare to take on the Cardinals at home…
- The Astros have released right-hander Francis Beltran, reports MLB.com's Brian McTaggart (on Twitter). The 31-year-old reliever pitched to a 19.89 ERA in 6 1/3 innings for Houston's Triple-A team this year. He has not appeared in the big leagues since 2008.
- Assistant GM Bobby Heck told Stephen Goff of Examiner.com that rumors of the team pursuing a pre-draft deal with lefty Chris Reed were a "misinterpretation on the part of numerous scouts with strong media connections." Reed went 16th overall to the Dodgers, five picks after the Astros chose George Springer.
- Steve Campbell of The Houston Chronicle lists five draft picks the Astros have signed, including fifth rounder Nick Tropiano.
