Astros agree to terms with LHP Tony Sipp

HOUSTON, TX - The Houston Astros have agreed to terms with free agent left-handed pitcher Tony Sipp, who will be in uniform for tonight's game. To make room for Sipp on the active roster, the Astros have optioned right-handed pitcher Paul Clemens to Triple A Oklahoma City. To clear a spot on the 40-man roster, right-handed pitcher Jesse Crain has been transferred to the 60-day DL. The announcements were made by Astros General Manager Jeff Luhnow.
 
Sipp, 30, had been pitching for Triple A El Paso in the San Diego Padres organization before asking for his release yesterday. In his 11 games with El Paso this season, Sipp fanned 21 hitters, while issuing just two walks in 14.2 innings of relief. He's posted a 1-1 record and a 4.30 ERA (7ER/14.2IP) and has allowed a .241 (14x58) opponent's batting average. Sipp pitched last season for Arizona and posted a 3-2 record and a 4.78 ERA (20ER/37.2IP) in 56 Major League appearances. He's a veteran of five Major League seasons with Cleveland (2009-12) and Arizona (2013) and has made 304 appearances in his Big League career.
 
Clemens, 26, has made four appearances for the Astros this season, posting a 4.73 ERA (7ER/13.1IP). He pitched on Wednesday vs. Washington, tossing 3.1 innings, while allowing just one run.
 
Crain, 32, has been on the Disabled List the entire season while recovering from offseason surgery on his right biceps. He currently is rehabbing at the Astros Spring Training complex in Florida.
 
With the addition of Sipp and the transfer of Crain to the 60-day DL, the Astros 40-man roster remains full at 40.