Roy Oswalt was signed by the Texas Rangers in May 2012 after sitting out the first couple of months to cherry-pick a winning team to join, ala Roger Clemens.
But Oswalt was no Roger Clemens and ended up being more of a headache and clubhouse cancer with the Rangers than a helpful pitcher. Now, the aging veteran is finally calling it quits, according to ESPN's Buster Olney, and it's doubtful he'll be at Globe Life Park for his retirement press conference like Mr. Ranger Michael Young.
Oswalt spent his good years in Houston and Philadelphia, but will forever be known as an Astro, for whom he pitched 9 1/2 seasons and compiled a 143-82 record with three all-star appearances. He also was part of the "greatest rotation ever assembled by man" in Philadelphia, and helped lead the Phillies to the NLCS in 2010.
But things never materialized for Oswalt in Texas, and he eventually became a bitter guy who just wasn't a team player. He complained about his role, and several times openly questioned Ron Washington on his use of him. He finished the 2012 season with Texas with a 4-3 record and a 5.80 ERA. He ended up making 17 appearances with the Rangers, but eight of them were in relief — something that infuriated Oswalt to no end.
Was Oswalt a really good pitcher over the course of his career? It's not a question. But he won't be remembered fondly for his time in Texas, and might not be remembered at all.
