by Ken Rosenthal

Duran, who turns 25 on Aug. 3, batted .231 with three homers and 16 RBIs in 60 games for the Rangers last season. He made 25 starts at third base, nine at second, three in the outfield and one at shortstop.

He has not played in the majors this season due to a rib contusion and a bout with appendicitis. The Astros will place him on the major- league disabled list and send him on a rehabilitation assignment, then likely option him to the minors.

Long-term, Duran could figure into the mix for the Astros at second and third base and in a utility role.