Houston Astros Ace Roy Oswalt Demands Trade
May 22, 2010- By Jonathan Lowell
The Houston Astro’s general manager, Ed Wade, confirmed that Roy Oswalt would like to be traded by the team. Oswalt’s agent, Bob Garber, requested the trade earlier this week after Oswalt decided to wave his no-trade clause.
Before Friday night’s game against the American League East leading Tampa Bay Rays, the Houston Astros were the owners of the worst record in the National League. Wade expressed interest in keeping the All-Star pitcher as well as owner Drayton McLane.
When asked to comment, McLane said he was not surprised by the pitchers request.
“No. Roy is like I am. Do I want to win? Do I want to be a champion? Absolutely. And they want to win. So they want to know which direction we’re headed and that’s something we’ve got to consider … we have not played well and that raises questions,” said McLane.
Oswalt’s career was at an all time high during the 2005 season. He had just made his first All-Star team, and his team was moving through the post-season. Oswalt had a 3-0 record during those playoffs and placed his team in the World-Series with a seven-srikeout performance. He was named NLCS MVP. His Astros didn’t win another game, however, subsequently being swept by the Chicago White-Sox in the World Series
There is still no report of any trade talks with any specific team. Other general managers think it will be hard for the Astros to trade Oswalt due to the large sum of money he is owed for the rest of this year and next year. Oswalt has also dealt with health issues throughout his career.
Oswalt has had a great start for the struggling ball club. He has registered nine consecutive quality starts, but has the lowest run support in the league. His 2-6 record looks out of place next to his 2.66 ERA.
Other stars have considered leaving the Astros as well. Lance Berkman said he would also be open to waiving his no-trade clause. His request is not linked to Oswalt’s, and the first baseman has not expressed if he would prefer a trade.
“That’s his deal,” Berkman said. “I really don’t have anything to say.”
Astro’s manager, Brad Mills, was told of Oswalt’s request to be traded before Friday’s game and didn’t express concern that the news would distract his team.
“I hadn’t even considered that,” he said. “I don’t think it should be a distraction at all. The guys are going to go out and play. They still have to perform. We’re professionals in how we go about our business and everything else.”
Online Sportsbooks have set the Houston Astro’s chances for winning the 2010 World Series at +25000.
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