Byron Scott to frustrated Cavs fans: Patience is a virtue
December 21, 2012Report: Indians in the market for OF Michael Bourn
December 21, 2012As was rumored last month, the Indians have inked a deal with lefty Scott Kazmir to a minor league deal, as was reported by Paul Hoynes tonight.
Kazmir, set to turn 29 years old in January, hasn’t pitched regularly in the big leagues since going 9-15 with a 5.94 ERA for Anaheim in 2010. A former first-round draft pick and promising start for Tampa Bay earlier last decade, his career quickly derailed because of injuries and inconsistency. He pitched in the independent leagues in 2012.
But, most recently, in the Caribbean Baseball Winter League with Gigantes de Carolina, Kazmir posted an 0-2 record and 4.37 ERA in five starts. He struck out 27 against 8 walks in just 22.2 IP, very respectable peripheral stats.
This seems like a very low risk move for the Indians, and wouldn’t seem to affect any other plans related to signing a possible free agent starter ready to compete for the MLB team in April. Kazmir could likely start for the Clippers in 2013, although we’ll certainly see more based on his performance in spring training.
[Related: The Pitch To Swish]
3 Comments
Solid all-around move. Maybe he has something left in the tank.
Balanced making somewhat of a FA splash and fans’ offseason expectations. If Francona and Co. can get Kazmir back on track the Tribe gets a decent LHP starter. If not, it’s only a minor-league deal and the Tribe is not out much dough. Still hoping we can land Swish, especially in time for Christmas and the rest of the holidays.
I can’t believe he is only 29. Little risk, potential reward. Why not?