Per Bob Elliott of the Toronto Sun, the Houston Astros do have interest in Blue Jays righthander David Purcey, who was designated for assignment earlier this week. Purcey posted a 3.71 ERA last year for the Jays in 34 innings, with a 2.13 SO/BB ratio. However, he has been hit early and often this year, and that 3.71 ERA represents the best season of his career. Purcey does work with 90+ MPH heat though, so he's obviously got teams interested in him for a reason.

If the Astros managed to pick Purcey up, the roster spot that may be up for grabs could be Rule V pick Aneury Rodriguez's spot. Rodriguez was recently suspended three games for hitting a batter, and he's sporting a sterling 13.5 ERA in five appearances so far. Fernando Abad may also be a candidate to go, although I doubt the Astros would get rid of the only lefty reliever they have on the roster now since they don't see him as much of a specialist. Stop me if you're surprised by this news; Ed Wade interested in a new reliever, film at eleven.