Astros recall Vincent Velasquez; option Josh Fields

Following a second straight night of extra innings and six relief pitchers being used on Wednesday, the Astros have recalled Vincent Velasquez to reinforce the Astros pitching staff. In a corresponding move, the Astros have sent down Josh Fields.

This isn't a demotion for Fields, more he is the odd man out with a bullpen full of players that can't be optioned. Fields is 4-1 with a 2.20 ERA and a 0.95 WHIP in 43 appearances this season. In August, he has been lights out -- 1-0 with a 0.00 ERA in eight appearances. Fields is also the Astros only option have in a bullpen filled with pitchers that lean more toward contact then the strikeout.

Velasquez does bring an electric fastball, he is 1-1 with 3.67 ERA, 43 strikeouts in 41 2/3 inning, and a 1.22 WHIP. As a reliever, Velasquez is 0-0 with a 0.00 ERA in 3 2/3 innings with five strikeouts.

Fields will be required to stay in Corpus Christi for at least ten days, unless a player on the 25-man roster is injured.