Astros release Pete Munro

[WebHamster]

Houston, TX (Sports Network) - The Houston Astros announced Wednesday that they have released right-handed pitcher Pete Munro.

The team requested waivers on the 29-year-old so he could be granted an unconditional release.

Munro, who had signed a one-year contract worth $700,000 on February 7, spent the 2002 and 2003 seasons with Houston before signing with the Minnesota Twins during last year's offseason. After beginning the 2004 campaign in the minors, Munro requested his release from the Twins and joined the Astros on June 3.

Last year, he went 4-7 with a 5.15 ERA over 21 games (19 starts). Munro made two appearances out of the bullpen, but was then switched into a starting role for his next 19 games of the year. He did make two starts for the Astros in the National League Championship Series, but did not record a decision in either game.

In his five-year career, which also includes a two-year stint with Toronto, Munro has compiled a 13-19 mark with a 4.88 ERA.