Bedard aims to impress suitors in rotation return

SEATTLE -- Veteran left-hander Erik Bedard will rejoin the Astros' rotation when he starts Monday's series opener against the Reds at Minute Maid Park.

Bedard's last four appearances have come in relief after being in the rotation for most of the year. Bedard is 4-10 with a 4.47 ERA in 29 games, including 3-9 with a 4.65 ERA in 23 starts. He has not started since Aug. 21 at Texas.

"It's going to be fun," he said. "Just to get back in the rotation and do what I've done the last 10 years is fun. Hopefully it ends up on a high note."

The Astros have been implementing a six-man rotation for more than a month, but they shut down rookie Jarred Cosart following his start Monday and will plug Bedard into his spot.

The move is significant for Bedard because he is set to receive a $250,000 incentive bonus with his next start. He will have three starts remaining, falling one start short of another $250,000 bonus. At 34 years old, Bedard hopes to put himself in position to play once again next year.

"It's going to be another free agent year, and you just do the best you can and try to have some eyes on you, and hopefully somebody wants you on their team," he said. "My arm feels good, and physically I feel really good. So as long as you're doing good physically and you can still put some decent numbers up there, you have a chance to get another job."