Nearly a decade after it began, the Forrest Whitley experiment in Houston now appears over. Whitley, a first-round pick by the Astros in 2017 and the team's top prospect from 2018-21, was designated for assignment on Sunday. Houston will now either trade Whitley, place him on waivers, or release him outright.

The move created an active roster spot for left-hander Brandon Walter, who was recalled from Triple-A to start Sunday's series finale for the Astros against the Guardians at Progressive Field. The Astros will have seven days to trade Whitley or place him on waivers,

The Houston Astros designated right-hander Forrest Whitley for assignment on Sunday, putting their tumultuous, nine-year partnership with the pitcher in peril. Once touted as the top starting pitching prospect in baseball,