HOUSTON (AP) — The Houston Astros have designated veterans Carlos Pena and Ronny Cedeno for assignment.
The two were among the only experienced players on this rebuilding team.
The 35-year-old Pena, who hit 39 homers in 2009 with Tampa Bay, signed with the Astros in the offseason and hit .209 with eight homers and 25 RBIs in 85 games splitting time between first base and designated hitter.
Cedeno, a shortstop, was hitting .220 with one homer and 12 RBIs.
Houston called up shortstop Jonathan Villar from Triple-A Oklahoma City to take his spot on the roster. The 22-year-old Villar has hit .278 with 16 doubles, eight triples, eight homers, 41 RBIs and 31 stolen bases in 90 games for the RedHawks.
