Scott Kazmir Joins Angels: Does This Impact ’09 Playoffs?

In a story that was first reported on ESPNews and MLB Trade Rumors, the Los Angeles Angels are about to acquire pitcher Scott Kazmir from the Tampa Bay Rays for two prospects.

One season ago, Kazmir was the ace of the Rays pitching staff that went to the World Series in 2008 and Kazmir was the Game One starter in each of those games in the playoffs.

In 2009, Kazmir has not been as good, but he has also been injured. He is currently 8-7 with a 5.92 ERA in 20 starts with only 91 strikeouts.

Because of the emergence of rookie Jeff Niemann in the rotation, plus the continuing development of David Price, Kazmir became expendable to Tampa.

The Rays have not been as successful this season as they were in 2008. Then, they won the AL East crown for the first time in t...

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