Chandler Rome: Astros Signing Free-Agent Left-Hander Eric Lauer to AAA

According to a report from Chandler Rome of The Athletic, the Houston Astros are showing interest in free agent left-handed pitcher Eric Lauer. Lauer had signed a minor-league deal with the Pittsburgh Pirates this offseason and was pitching in Triple-A, prior to opting out of his deal with the Pirates this week.

As Rome notes, Astros GM Dana Brown worked in Toronto when the team selected him in the 2013 MLB Draft, though he did not sign went to play college ball at Kent State.

UPDATE: The Astros signed Lauer to a minor-league deal and sent him to Triple-A Sugar Land.