The Houston Astros designated right-hander Forrest Whitley for assignment on Sunday, putting their tumultuous, nine-year partnership with the pitcher in peril. Once touted as the top starting pitching prospect in baseball,

The Houston Astros designated reliever Forrest Whitley for assignment Sunday, potentially ending the former top pitching prospect's tenure in the organization. Whitley, a first-round draft pick in 2016,

Whitley pitched in just five games out of the Astros’ bullpen this year, giving up 10 earned runs across 7 1/3 innings in relief. He made his MLB debut last season, appearing in just three games.

It’s Thursday, June 5 and the Astros (33-28) are in Pittsburgh to take on the Pirates (23-39). Framber Valdez is slated to take the mound for Houston against Mitch Keller for Pittsburgh.

The Phillies’ Joe Ross has appeared in 21 games but makes his first start. The Pirates’ Bailey Falter allowed three runs over his last 35 ²/₃ innings and hasn’t watched a ball fly over a wall in his last five starts. Play $50 on the Pirates.

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