Astros call up Bixler, place Gonzalez on DL

The Houston Astros recalled utility player Brian Bixler from Class AAA Oklahoma City to replace shortstop Marwin Gonzalez, who went on the disabled list with a heel bruise, the Houston Chronicle reported Friday.

Bixler, who can play all positions except pitcher and catcher, will back up shortstop without Gonzalez.

Bixler was up briefly earlier this year when infielder Jed Lowrie was out for the first week and when Gonzalez was on paternity leave.

Bixler is 1-for-7 for the Astros heading into Friday. He hit .302 with a .374 on-base percentage in 45 games for Oklahoma City.