Marlins claim Asher Wojciechowski; Erik Kratz clears waivers

The Houston Astros have announced the finalization of two moves the team made earlier to make room for prospects Colin Moran and Tony Kemp. Catcher Erik Kratz was given his outright release and right-handed pitcher Asher Wojciechowski was claimed off waivers by the Miami Marlins.

The Marlins have claimed RHP Asher Wojciechowski off waivers. Additionally, C Erik Kratz has cleared waivers and has been released.

— Houston Astros (@astros) May 24, 2016

The team designated pitcher Asher Wojciechowski and catcher Erik Kratz for assignment, giving the team 10 days to placed on waivers, traded, released or outrighted to the minors.

Kratz was acquired from the San Diego Padres for right-handed pitcher Dan Straily before the start of the 2016 season with the injury to Max Stassi that put him on the shelf for a month and a half. Kratz batted .069 (2x29) in 15 games with the Astros including one double and zero RBIs. He has been replaced on the roster by Evan Gattis -- who went to the minors to relearn the catcher position. Kratz is free to sign with all 30 MLB teams.

Wojciechowski, 27, had a 2-2 record with a 5.33 ERA and a 1.66 WHIP in Triple-A. The Astros acquired Wojciechowski from the Blue Jays in 2012 as part of the Brandon Lyon trade. He made appeared in five games with the Astros in 2015, starting in three games. He was 0-1 with a 7.16 ERA with 16 strikeouts and seven walks.