The Rice University alum was a lefty reliever who started his big league career in Kansas City, Baltimore and Detroit before signing with the Astros in 2008.

He pitched for three seasons in Houston, compiling a 5-5 record with a 3.53 ERA. After his release, he spent three seasons with the Mets. For his career, Byrdak posted a 13-13 record with a 4.35 ERA over 12 seasons.