Uncertain Future For Roy Oswalt

Roy Oswalt told Jim Salisbury of CSNPhilly.com that back problems may put his career in jeopardy. The 33-year-old right-hander left last night’s start with lower back soreness after two innings and isn’t sure whether he’ll pitch again. 

“You throw as long as you can and when you can’t throw anymore you don’t,” Oswalt said. “Hopefully it’s not to the point where I can’t throw anymore. If it’s at that point, you just have to accept it.”

Oswalt spent time on the disabled list with a back issue in April and May and he says his back has bothered him for a while. He has had cortisone shots in the past, but says he still feels pain while sitting, standing, walking, pitching and sleeping.

The three-time All-Star has posted a 3.79 ERA with 5.3 K/9 and 2.3 BB/9 in 71 1/3 innnings for the Phillies this year. His average fastball velocity has dropped from 92.6 mph to 91.2 mph, however.

Oswalt’s contract includes a mutual option for 2012 valued at $16MM. The Phillies can buy out the option for $2MM or Oswalt can walk away for a lesser buyout, according to Cot’s Baseball Contracts.