Astros Release Outfielder Nelson Velazquez, Who Plans to Pursue Opportunities in Asia
Houston released the 27-year-old outfielder on Tuesday, ending a brief Astros stint that began with an August waiver claim from St. Louis, MLB Trade Rumors reported.
The Houston Astros released veteran outfielder Nelson Velazquez on Tuesday, and the 27-year-old plans to pursue opportunities in Asia, MLB Trade Rumors reported, relaying Brian McTaggart of MLB.com.
Velazquez opened the 2026 season in the St. Louis Cardinals' system, compiling a .722 OPS across 34 games before the Cardinals designated him for assignment in early August. Houston claimed him on waivers, and in his brief time as an Astro he went 3-for-27 with 13 strikeouts — though two of his three hits were home runs. Houston designated him for assignment after about a week and a half; he cleared waivers, elected free agency, and later re-signed with the organization on a minor league deal.
A former Cubs prospect, Velazquez has hit 37 home runs in 728 major league plate appearances, but consistent contact has been the drawback: his career strikeout rate is 29.5 percent. The reports of his release did not name a specific destination in Asia.
