HOUSTON -- The Astros sent left-hander Framber Valdez to Triple-A Round Rock on Thursday as the club prepared for a 10-day, eight-game trip that begins Friday in Seattle.

The club said Valdez’s spot would be filled before Friday’s game.

Valdez, 27, pitched in two of the Astros' first 13 games, allowing two earned runs in three innings. His last appearance was Sunday when he pitched the ninth inning of a 6-0 victory over the A’s.

He came onto the Astros' radar during his Major League debut last August, appearing in eight games down the stretch and performing well with a 4-1 record and 2.19 ERA.