The Astros optioned Whitley to Triple-A Sugar Land on Wednesday, Chandler Rome of The Athletic reports.
Whitley will return to Triple-A just one day after being recalled for his MLB debut. He allowed one hit and one walk but did not surrender a run through two-thirds of an inning against Atlanta on Tuesday. The 26-year-old's departure opens a spot on the active roster that will presumably be given to Justin Verlander (shoulder) when he returns Friday.