The Houston Astros sent both Matt Downs and J.D. Martinez down to AAA, reports Zachary Levine of the Houston Chronicle. Both players will be optioned to make room for the newly acquired Tyler Greene from the Cardinals and a player to be named later. According to Levine, The other player spot will most likely be announced tomorrow:
Astros send Matt Downs and J.D. Martinez to AAA. One spot is Tyler Greene's. Another filled tomorrow.
— Zachary Levine (@zacharylevine) August 10, 2012
Matt Downs, 28, was hitting .209 with 7 HRs and 13 RBIs in a part-time role before being sent down. OF J.D. Martinez, 24, was hitting .234, 11 HRs, and 54 RBIs before being optioned. Martinez struggled of late, hitting only .227 with 0 HRs and a pedestrian .574 OPS after the All-Star Break after a strong start to the season in April that had him hitting .282, 3 HRs, and 19 RBIs.
The Astros will continue to let their young outfielder season and work out in the minor leagues. The replacement, Greene, was struggling before being acquired but should get an extended look with the Astros considering there is nothing to lose.