HOUSTON -- Minor League outfielder Danry Vasquez was suspended indefinitely by Major League Baseball, pending the outcome of an ongoing criminal investigation in Texas, and then was subsequently released by the Astros on Wednesday.
After the suspension was announced, the Astros released the following statement:
"The Astros have released Minor League player Danry Vasquez effective immediately and upon MLB's ruling today. We are appreciative of MLB's commitment to take timely action and for the diligence of the Corpus Christi PD in pursuing their investigation. <o:p>
"We appreciate the ruling today as it supports our firm intention to terminate Danry's association with our club. We will continue to cooperate with Corpus Christi PD as they complete their investigation."
Vasquez had been placed on administrative leave by Major League Baseball on Tuesday. The Corpus Christi Caller-Times, citing an arrest affidavit, reported Vasquez was arrested after he was caught on video surveillance allegedly striking his girlfriend at Whataburger Field.
The paper said police arrested Vasquez, who is on the roster for the Double-A Corpus Christi Hooks, on a warrant Aug. 4 on suspicion of assault family violence, which is a misdemeanor. Vasquez remains free on $10,000 bail, the paper reported.
Vasquez, who was acquired by the Astros in a trade with the Tigers three years ago, was hitting .265 with three homers and 20 RBIs in 60 games for the Hooks. The 22-year-old hadn't appeared in a game since July 31.