The Houston Astros made another roster move on Saturday, claiming outfielder Rhylan Thomas off waivers from the Seattle Mariners as the club continues searching for healthy depth in its injury-hit outfield group. To create room on the 40-man roster, Houston shifted right-handed pitcher Hunter Brown from the 15-day injured list to the 60-day IL.
Thomas began his professional career after being selected by the New York Mets in the 11th round of the 2022 MLB Draft. He later joined Seattle in July 2024 as part of the trade that sent reliever Ryne Stanek to New York. Although Thomas only appeared briefly at the major league level with Seattle during the 2025 season, he managed to show flashes of promise. In three games, he collected one hit in eight at-bats, including a double, while also driving in two runs and drawing a walk.
The left-handed hitter had a productive stretch with Triple-A Tacoma last season, posting an impressive .325 batting average along with a .380 on-base percentage and a .411 slugging percentage over 617 plate appearances. However, his offensive numbers dipped this year. Across 31 games and 145 plate appearances, Thomas recorded a .260/.313/.328 slash line with two home runs, nine RBIs, and six stolen bases. Despite the decline, he still owns a strong overall Triple-A résumé, carrying a career .301 batting average with a .352 on-base percentage and a .388 slugging mark in 261 games.
Part of the statistical downturn has been tied to a noticeable drop in batting average on balls in play. After posting a .332 BABIP in 2025, that number fell to .269 this season, contributing to his reduced offensive production.
Seattle decided to designate Thomas for assignment earlier in the week after the organization claimed pitcher Jose Suarez off waivers from the Atlanta Braves. The move opened the door for Houston to add another versatile outfielder capable of playing all three defensive spots.
For the Astros, adding Thomas is largely about reinforcing a roster that has been heavily impacted by injuries. Outfielders Jake Meyers, Joey Loperfido, and Taylor Trammell are all currently sidelined with various injuries, leaving the club short on experienced depth. Younger players such as Brice Matthews, Zach Dezenzo, and Zach Cole have stepped in to help fill the gaps, despite having limited major league experience.
Houston immediately optioned Thomas to Triple-A Sugar Land following the waiver claim. One advantage for the Astros is that Thomas still has two minor league options remaining, giving the organization flexibility if additional roster moves become necessary later in the season.
Meanwhile, Brown continues working his way back from a Grade 2 strain in his right shoulder. His transfer to the 60-day injured list was made retroactive to April 2. The pitcher recently completed a bullpen session and is expected to continue progressing through his recovery program, with a possible return to action projected for early June.
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