Oswalt's future in Texas

Texas Rangers manager Ron Washington moved quickly what could be increasingly awkward situation with Roy Oswalt in the past.

Oswalt pitched two scoreless innings Sunday in Kansas City, but declined to take the mound in the ninth inning with the score tied at 6. Washington said Monday he's put the issue behind him and sees no need to discuss it with the former starter.

Oswalt, who agreed to terms with the Rangers in late May, went 3-2 with a 6.49 ERA in six starts before being demoted to the bullpen, where he has thrown two scoreless innings in each of his first two relief appearances.

The Rangers are aware that Oswalt is unhappy with the banishment to the bullpen, but Monday's announcement by Washington is a way of saying he simply doesn't care.

The Rangers could try to release or trade Oswalt if the situation deteriorates, but the club would be on the hook for the remainder of his $4.5 million contract if they cut the cord.MLB.com's Richard Justice says the Rangers will trade Oswalt if and only if there is a deal that makes the club better.