Houston Astros: Who’s a Better Option, Scott Kazmir or Wei-Yin Chen?

Better Option for Astros: Kazmir or Chen?

Aug 17, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Astros pitcher Scott Kazmir reacts in the dugout after being pulled from the game in the sixth inning against the Tampa Bay Rays at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

The Astros made the first big move pre-trade deadline this season when they acquired starting pitcher Scott Kazmir from the Oakland Athletics in exchange for two low-level prospects (catcher Jacob Nottingham and pitcher Daniel Mengden). My analysts considered the trade the steal of the deadline. Pre-All Star game, the lefty had a 2.49 ERA.  He had a staggering 0.26 ERA in July over the course of five starts.

Kazmir was considered the missing piece for the Astros. However, post All-Start Kazmir was a bit of a different story.  It was by no means a disaster.  But, definitely short of expectations. Kazmir posted a 3.86 ERA and went 2-6 after the All-Star break.  This offseason, Kazmir’s two-years $22 million dollar contract has come to a close.  The Astros now have to decide to sign Kazmir to a muti-year deal that could be worth as much as three years and $48 million.

Another lefty starting pitcher entering free agency this offseason is the Orioles Wei-Yin Chen.  Chen presents the Astros an alternative and potentially cheaper pitching option.  This article will look and compare the pitchers to present who would be possibly a better fit for the Astros.

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