HOUSTON, TX – The Houston Astros have claimed right-handed pitcher Declan Cronin off waivers from the Chicago White Sox. To make room for Cronin on the 40-man roster, the Astros designated right-handed pitcher Joel Kuhnel for assignment. The announcement was made by Astros General Manager Dana Brown.

Cronin, 26, made his Major League debut for the White Sox last season, appearing in nine games. He spent the majority of his year at Triple A Charlotte, where he went 3-0 with two saves and a 3.83 ERA (22ER/51.2IP) in 47 relief appearances. Through parts of four seasons at the minor league level, he has gone 12-6 with a 3.81 ERA (78ER/184.1IP) and four saves in 151 appearances (one start).

Kuhnel, 28, recorded a 4.66 ERA (5ER/9.2IP) through seven relief appearances with the Astros last season after being acquired by the Cincinnati Reds in June. He also made 17 appearances with Triple A Sugar Land, going 1-1 with a 5.03 ERA (11ER/19.2IP). 

Following today’s moves, the Astros 40-man roster remains full.