Mariners Bedard Hits DL

The Seattle Mariners’ rotation took a hit today when the team placed Erik Bedard on the 15 day disabled list.  The left hander is dealing with a sprained knee.

Many were caught off guard by the move, as only two days ago Bedard was able to pitch 7 strong innings against the Braves.  The 32 year old eventually told the team that he was experiencing discomfort in his right knee.

Bedard returned to the club this season after missing all of 2010.  He’s been excellent when on the mound for the Mariners, but the trouble’s been keeping him healthy.  Before 2011, Bedard only managed to start 30 games for the team.

He’s been solid this year for the M’s.  After a rocky April, Bedard has maintained ERAs of 1.39 and 2.25 over the months of May and June.  The lefty takes an earned run average of an even 3.00 and 1.11 WHIP with him to the DL.

Before the injury, Seattle was the only team remaining that had only used 5 starters in this season.  The club has one of the best staff’s in the league, leading the majors in WHIP and the AL in strike outs.

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