The Astros optioned Rodriguez to Triple-A Round Rock on Thursday. The 27-year-old left-hander, who led the team in victories, was 9-6 with a 5.22 ERA in 19 starts this season.
(Updated 7/21/2006)

Analysis: Rodriguez is 19-16 with a 5.38 ERA in 46 games for the Astros over the last two seasons. Houston called up right-hander Matt Albers from Double-A to fill Rodriguez's roster spot.