Erik Bedard retires amid comeback attempt

Left-handed pitcher Erik Bedard has retired amid a comeback bid.

Left-handed pitcher Erik Bedard has retired, his minor league team announced on Thursday.

Bedard had been pitching for Class A Advanced Rancho Cucamonga and attempting a comeback to the majors. He signed a minor-league deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers in January but strained his back during spring training. 

The 36-year-old last pitched in the majors in July 2014 as a member of the Tampa Bay Rays. 

Bedard made three starts for Rancho Cucamonga before announcing his retirement. 

He retires after an 11-year MLB career that included stops with six teams. He spent the most time with the Baltimore Orioles, where he played the first five years of his career.

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Bedard had a career 71–82 record with a 3.99 ERA and 1,246 strikeouts in 1303 2/3 innings.

- Molly Geary