Two Astros Players Go Unclaimed On Waivers; Sent Outright

The Houston Astros have sent outfielder Bligh Madris and first baseman J.J. Matijevic outright to Triple-A Sugar Land.

Both players went unclaimed on waivers after being designated for assignment last week by the Astros.

From the Astros: OF Bligh Madris and IF J.J. Matijevic have both cleared waivers and have been outrighted to Triple A Sugar Land...both players were designated for assignment when the Astros set their Opening Day roster on Thursday.

— Mark Berman (@MarkBermanFox26) April 3, 2023

Madris was acquired by Houston from the Detroit Tigers in January for cash considerations but failed to earn a spot on the Astros' season-opening roster while hitting .273/.385/.333 in 39 plate appearances during spring training. He struggled during his time with the Pittsburgh Pirates last season, posting a disappointing .177/.244/.509 triple slash line in 113 at-bats.

However, Madris showed promise in the minors in 2022, slashing a strong .297/.366/.876 line with 11 home runs, 49 RBIs, four stolen bases, and 45 runs scored over 296 at-bats.

Both Bligh Madris and J.J. Matijevic cleared waivers. They've been sent to Triple-A Sugar Land

— Chandler Rome (@Chandler_Rome) April 3, 2023

Matijevic made his MLB debut last year and had a .207 batting average with two home runs in 71 plate appearances. He was a reliable performer in Triple-A last season, slashing .285/.372/.561 with 16 home runs, 54 RBIs, 10 stolen bases, and 46 runs scored across 64 games played.

Despite his success in the minors, Matijevic failed to land a spot on the Astros' season-opening roster and will likely stick around as organizational depth.

Both Madris and Matijevic will join Triple-A Sugar Land as extra organizational depth for the Houston Astros. Photo Credit: Rich Storry-USA TODAY Sports