Houston signs right-hander Benitez

August 22, 2009 - Pacific Coast League (PCL1)
Round Rock Express News Release

ROUND ROCK - The Houston Astros announced Saturday that the club has signed right-handed pitcher Armando Benitez to a Minor League contract. Benitez will report to Triple-A Round Rock on Sunday.

Benitez, 36, had been playing for Newark in the Independent League and was 1-0 with 16 saves and a 2.86 ERA in 34 relief outings. He recorded 43 strikeouts in 34 2/3 innings and held opponents to a .171 batting average.

In 15 Major League seasons, Benitez posted a 40-47 record with 289 saves and a 3.13 ERA (271ER/779IP) in 762 career relief appearances with Baltimore (1994-98), the New York Mets (1999-2003), the New York Yankees (2003), Seattle (2003), Florida (2004, 2007), San Francisco (2005-07) and Toronto (2008).

The addition of Benitez to the Express roster follows the Minor League rehab assignments of infielder Aaron Boone and right-handed pitcher Doug Brocail. Both will be in uniform for Round Rock's game against Memphis tonight at 7:05 p.m.

The Express has now undergone 104 transactions for the season.

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Pacific Coast League Stories from August 22, 2009

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