Thomas Campbell – USA TODAY Sports
Yesterday it was Bud Norris, today it is Erik Bedard. Early in the afternoon, veteran Houston Astros starter Bedard was scratched from his start against the Baltimore Orioles.
Bedard has had a rough go of it this year, showing inconsistency en route to a 3-8 record and a 4.28 ERA. He has shown some flashes of brilliance this year, however, with one game in particular standing out — his 6.1-inning no-hit outing on July 20.
Related: Houston Astros Free More Roster Space by Moving Maxwell
Trade talk involving the veteran has been quiet, especially given the low amount of action that is being seen this trade deadline day. But with rumors surrounding Norris picking up heat, perhaps Bedard’s lack of attention can be attributed to his teammates popularity.
At 34-years old, Bedard is not going to play into the Astros’ future, so it only makes sense to move him now and get something for him as opposed to waiting to deal with him later, and perhaps losing him to free agency. When he was first signed, the lefty was clearly only being used as a place holder for the Astros until some younger arms could get moved up.
Stepping into the start is Brett Oberholtzer, a product of the Micheal Bourn trade with the Atlanta Braves.
Oberholtzer, 24, has had a rough start to his major league career. The southpaw has been used strictly as a long reliever, going 7.1 innings and giving up six earned runs. Traditionally a starter throughout his career, Oberholtzer’s growing pains in the bullpen can be attributed to playing out of a familiar role. This spot start is a great opportunity for him to show why he belongs in the starting rotation.
