Astros DFA former top prospect Whitley

The Houston Astros designated right-hander Forrest Whitley for assignment, the club announced Sunday.

Houston recalled left-hander Brandon Walter from Triple-A in a corresponding roster move.

Whitley, 27, was the Astros' No. 1 prospect in 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021. He was a first-round pick in the 2016 draft.

Injuries and a suspension for violating the league's drug prevention and treatment program prevented Whitley from making his MLB debut until 2024, when he appeared as a reliever.

Whitley made three appearances last season and didn't allow a run with five strikeouts in 3 1/3 innings. He struggled this year, though, registering a 12.27 ERA and 2.05 WHIP in five games.