O’s Acquire Pitcher Bud Norris from Astros

Bud Norris #20 of the Houston Astros throws in the first inning against the Oakland Athletics at Minute Maid Park on July 24, 2013 in Houston, Texas.

It looks like Bud Norris of the Astros will be suiting up at Camden Yards … for the Orioles. According to reports, Norris will join the team as the non-waiver trade deadline inches towards a conclusion.

ESPN reported: "The Baltimore Orioles have acquired starting pitcher Bud Norris from the Houston Astros for minor league outfielder L.J. Hoes and another prospect, a team source confirmed to ESPN's Jim Bowden."

He's not the pitcher that I wanted and I'm not sure that will exactly light the world on fire in the American League East and against lefties; however, I would assume he could not be any worse than Jason Hammel. If you need any clue of what I am talking about, look at his lifetime record in the majors.

Everyone would have loved a Jake Peavy or a Cliff Lee, but the price on both would have been a little too high and very expensive.

One would have to assume that Hammel will be bumped out of the rotation and Norris will take his place. I think Norris will only make a marginal difference; however, with the Orioles more likely in a dog fight now fora playoff spot, the addition of him may be crucial.

I didn't think too highly of pitcher Joe Saunders last year when he first joined the Orioles, but we all know what he did in the playoffs. Maybe Norris could be that guy.

The Orioles hold the second American League wild card spot by only 1/2 a game right now and the pitching rotation needed to be upgraded.

I believe they also need a bat, notably in the designated hitter spot; however, the Orioles did take care of an important need this afternoon.

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