Brett Oberholtzer optioned to AAA

The Astros announced a number of roster moves today. Some were expected. Others, not so much. Most surprising of the bunch, #3 starter Brett Oberholtzer has been optioned to AAA Oklahoma City.

Oberholtzer’s demotion doesn’t come as a huge surprise, but I would have expected a trip to the bullpen before a trip to OKC. The lefty has struggled a bit in the early going, posting a 1.58 WHIP in seven starts. But Obie has been given almost zero run support and his 4.19 FIP looks better than his 5.68 ERA.

The team obviously believes Oberholtzer’s future is as a starting pitcher. So sending him down to work things out could the best thing for him right now. A move to the bullpen would have been disruptive to his routine as a starter.

Oberholtzer is the type of player I love to watch and I hope he isn’t gone for long. He’s a great competitor who stands up for his teammates and isn’t afraid to say what’s on his mind. On a team in need of players with leadership qualities, I think Obie is a prime candidate for such a role.

In other transactions today, the Astros activated Scott Feldman (as expected) to start tonight’s game in Baltimore. Jose Cisnero and his elbow discomfort moved to the 15-day disabled list. And right-hander Paul Clemens was recalled from AAA.