Buyers Beware: Scott Kazmir

Ken Rosenthal is reporting that Rays pitcher Scott Kazmir will miss his Opening Day start because of an elbow strain. Although this may come as a surprise to you, many scouts have suggested that his elbow is just about ready to pop. Kazmir went 13-9 with a 3.48 ERA last season, but I am sure the Rays would not hesitate to trade him if he would put another solid season together. They have Shields, along with young pitchers Wade Davis and David Price who are just a year or so away, and trading Kazmir for several prospects would be very good for the Rays future. Not only that, but they will avoid future arm troubles and a big salary. It is likely he will miss two scheduled starts, but I think it will take some time find his groove before we see the Kazmir of norm. I would stay away from him, and take a chance on pitcher Ben Sheets to put up a healthy season, or even pitcher Kyle Lohse.