DETROIT — The Houston Astros reinstated reliever Bryan Abreu from the restricted list before Thursday’s series opener against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park. Left-hander Colton Gordon was optioned back to Triple-A Sugar Land in a corresponding move.
Abreu was placed on the restricted list Monday before the Astros began a series in Toronto. Manager Joe Espada said that Abreu was on the restricted list due to a “personal matter.”
MLB’s restricted list is for players who are under contract but unavailable to play for various reasons and does not have a minimum or maximum duration. Abreu missed only the three games in Toronto.
Houston initially called up reliever Logan VanWey to fill Abreu’s roster spot. VanWey was optioned back to Triple-A after pitching in the first two games in Toronto. Gordon was recalled for bullpen coverage on Wednesday and did not pitch in the series finale against the Blue Jays.
Abreu has a 6.39 ERA in 29 relief appearances this season.