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SAN DIEGO (AP) The Houston Astros placed right-handed pitcher Brandon Backe on waivers Monday.

The 31-year-old, who has no record with a 10.38 ERA in 13 innings for the Astros this season, rejected an assignment to Triple-A Round Rock. He will likely become a free-agent and receive all of his $1.5 million salary after three days.

Backe is 31-29 with a 5.23 ERA over eight seasons with Tampa Bay and Houston, including a 9-14 mark with a 6.05 ERA for the Astros last year.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 06-29-09 1943CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list