Houston Astros 2016 Pitching Rotation Options (Part 1)

Scott Kazmir

Sep 2, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Astros starting pitcher Scott Kazmir (26) pitches against the Seattle Mariners in the second inning at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Thomas B. Shea-USA TODAY Sports

Player Overview and Stats

Out of work a few years ago, Scott Kazmir went out to pitch for the Sugar Land Skeeters.  While there, Kazmir would retool his mechanics and made a return to the MLB in 2013.  Playing with the Athletics last season, Kazmir posted a respectable 3.55 ERA.  This season Kazmir has taken another leap in his game, posting a 2.38 ERA before the Astros made the steal of the trade deadline.

Contract Situation

Kazmir is currently in the final year of his contract and will become a free agent this offseason.  His success over the past two seasons should land the left-hander some serious money.

2016 Status and My Recommendation

Kazmir is the hardest recommendation to make.  I would love to have the Houston native return on a multiyear contract.  However, I think the Astros get outbid by other teams.  The Astros don’t need to get a bidding war considering the wealth of options they have for the 2016 season and beyond.

While Kazmir could be willing to take a hometown discount, he probably won’t, considering how hard he has had to work to get to the level he is at currently.  If the Astros are able to retain him and get a quality deal, then he’d be welcomed back in the top of the rotation behind Keuchel.

Next: Colin McHugh