The Astros have designated 27-year old righty starting pitcher Josh Banks for assignment. Banks started 1 game for the Astros working 4 innings in which he gave up 8 hits, walked 4 batters and he allowed 6 earned runs as he was the losing pitcher. The Astros have activated 25-year old righty starting pitched Bud Norris from the D.L. to replace Banks in the rotation. Norris has started 9 games for the Astros this season and he is 2-5 with a 6.80 ERA and a 1.76 WHIP. Norris has whiffed 54 batters in only 43 2/3 innings this season but that has been part of his problem. He’s throwing instead of pitching as he has allowed 51 hits while walking 26 batters this season. Norris has a nice upside as long as he starts throwing strikes.