To say the season has been disappointing for the Mariners would be like saying gas prices are getting a bit high. At the center of their disappointment has been the trade for lefthander Eric Bedard. He was yet another pitcher that the Reds were speculated to be in the market for before the season, but Cincinnati was unwilling to come off its top talent.

The Mariners couldn't resist as they sent phenom Adam Jones and four other players, including All-Star closer George Sherrill to the Orioles in the exchange for the so-called ace.

Bedard has not delivered on his promise to point posting a 6-4 record with a 3.67 ERA and 72 strikeouts in 81 innings while battling arm problems. He is signed through 2009, but the Mariners, who appear destined for a hardcore rebuilding, would like to shop him as the deadline nears. However, an arm injury is getting in the way. He is currently serving his second stint on the DL of the seasaon and despite being eligilble to come off of it on Sunday, Bedard is likely not going to return to the mound until August.

Seattle manager Jim Riggleman said Friday the tightness in Bedard's left shoulder did not improve over the All-Star break, so he will not even throw a baseball until Monday when will try to play catch. If that goes well, Bedard could throw a bullpen session next week, but the team is not trying to get him back pitching in game before the July 31 non-waivers trading deadline just so it can showcase him to potential suitors, according to the Associated Press.

I am glad the Reds didn't listen me on this one.