The Astros designated infielder Matt Downs for assignment, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports. The Astros originally acquired Downs when they claimed him off of waivers from the Giants in 2010.
Downs played in 91 games for the Astros this past season, appearing at all four infield positions and at both corner outfield positions. He posted a .202/.253/.371 batting line in 191 plate appearances, down from the .276/.347/.518 line he posted in his first full season with the Astros. The 28-year-old bats from the right side and has shown slightly more power against left-handed pitching in his four-year MLB career.
Not surprised. Downs is a versatile player with a little pop in his bat. Hope he catches on somewhere else. ‘Stros probably making room for Josh Hamilton…
Matt Downs needs to write a book.
Wouldn’t mind seeing the Reds pick him up.
He had a good run, but isn’t going to be a part of the future. Will get a util job somewhere at MLB level.
To the phillies! Cuz… well why not?
I’d take him as a PH.
How could you not take a stab at this guy even as a utility infielder. I’d even give him the chance to compete as a starter.
Downs is a pretty good player – very versatile – plays all infield positions and the corner outfields, does not make errors, and swings a decent power bat. Over the last two years he hit 18 home runs in 390 ABs…..not bad for a utility guy. Not sure why the Astros let him go so early, without giving him a shot in spring training. I can only assume that they believe Scott Moore, Tyler Greene and Brandon Laird have more to offer as utility players. Moore and Greene have similar power as Downs.
I am surprised of this move. You can not have enough power off the bench.
This guy was always ready to pinch in in any way. I hope we can get something for him.