Astros roster moves: Edgar Gonzalez claimed by Blue Jays

Welp. I guess this is how this season is going to play out.

After designating right-hander long reliever Edgar Gonzalez for assignment to make room for newly acquired left-hander Travis Blackley, the Astros suddenly found themselves in need of a long reliever when Blackley hurt his shoulder in his first bullpen session.

That long reliever will not be Edgar Gonzalez, as the right-hander was claimed by the Blue Jays off waivers. To make room for Gonzalez, the Jays placed Dustin McGowan on the 60-day disabled list.

#BlueJays claim Edgar Gonzalez on waivers from Astros, transfer Dustin McGowan to 60 day DL. Corresponding roster move coming in Detroit.

— Shi Davidi (@ShiDavidi) April 7, 2013

Houston used newly promoted Dallas Keuchel in a long relief role on Saturday, with Keuchel throwing 3 innings while striking out one and giving up three hits and one run on a solo homer by Eric Sogard. It does mean that Keuchel won't be part of the tandem starter experiment in OKC and may put him at a disadvantage if Houston needs a starter at a moment's notice later this season.

Gonzalez wasn't a great pitcher, but his absence hurts the depth Houston took pains to build in the offseason. With Alex White under the knife and Blackley hurt for who knows how long, Houston needs that depth now more than ever.