The Los Angeles Dodgers released starting pitcher Bud Norris from the organization this week. He was designated for assignment on Sept. 20 to clear room on the 40-man roster for Alex Wood to be reinstated from the 60-day disabled list.
Norris was acquired from the Atlanta Braves at the end of June to help the Dodgers fill an immediate need in the rotation with the loss of Clayton Kershaw to a back injury. In 13 games (nine starts), Norris went 3-3 with a 6.54 ERA, 5.16 FIP and 1.62 WHIP while striking out 42 and walking 21.
Norris was 3-3 with a 5.40 ERA in his first 10 games (eight starts) with the Dodgers. Soon after returning from the disabled list (back injury), he was sent to the bullpen in late August, used as a spot starter on Aug. 31, and made relief appearances Sept. 9 and Sept. 18.
Overall this season between the Braves and the Dodgers, Norris was 6-10 with a 5.10 ERA, 4.33 FIP and 1.46 WHIP.
The 31-year-old has pitched in eight big league seasons with the Houston Astros, Baltimore Orioles, San Diego Padres, Braves and Dodgers. Norris’ best year was in 2014 when he went 15-8 with a 3.65 ERA in 28 starts with the Orioles.
The right-hander has primarily been used a starter throughout his career, though has experience outside of this season as a relief pitcher. Norris will become a free agent this winter.
