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The Houston Astros have claimed left-handed pitcher Darin Downs off waivers from the Detroit Tigers, according to a team announcement. Downs, 28, will immediately be added to Houston's 40-man roster.
In 29 appearances out of the bullpen for the Tigers on the season, Downs was 0-2 with a 4.84 ERA, 9.4 K/9 and 2.8 BB/9 in 35.1 innings of work. He also pitched in thirteen games for Triple-A Toledo, tallying a 2.16 ERA in 16.2 innings. Over two major league seasons with the Tigers, the 2006 fifth round pick is 2-3 with a 4.34 ERA, 9.2 K/9 and 3.2 BB/9.
The Astros are expected to be busy with bullpen additions this offseason, and have expressed a willingness to spend money in free agency over the winter. Adding Downs is likely the first step towards revamping the team's bullpen, and he will probably get a chance to be in the major leagues at the beginning of next season.