The Oakland A’s sent lefthander Scott Kazmir to the Houston Astros. The 31-year-old is having a year not unlike the Astros, surging back from recent mediocrity to look like a contender. Kazmir has struck out 101 in 109 2/3 innings, establishing an impressive 2.38 ERA in 18 starts. He was 5-5 at Oakland. The Astros gave up young prospects Daniel Mengden (pitcher) and Jacob Nottingham (catcher).
The Astros stand at 53-43, chasing the LA Angels in the AL West. Kazmir will be a free agent at year’s end. The move signifies a conviction in Houston that the Astros have what it takes to contend right now.
