The Cleveland Plain Dealer is reporting that starting pitcher Scott Kazmir is seeking a multi-year deal and will likely test the free agent market. Kazmir posted a 4.04 ERA, 1.32 WHIP, and struck out 162 batters in 158 innings in 2013. It was quite the turnaround for Kazmir who missed all of 2012 and the majority of 2011 with injuries.
It was the best he's looked since 2008 and being just 30 years old means he is one of the intriguing low-cost options on the market this year, even if he's seeking a long-term deal. Let's be honest, Ervin Santana and Ricky Nolasco are commanding way too much money this offseason. Kazmir offers a similar upside despite the history and being a lefty makes him even more enticing.
The market for Kazmir will likely form quickly as teams are scared off by high asking prices of other players. Teams that are looking for pitching depth will likely jump on him.
The Twins, Blue Jays, Cubs, and Dodgers are all possibilities for the lefty, especially as they are exploring all options on the pitching market.
The Indians will likely lose both Kazmir and Ubaldo Jimenez this offseason, so they will certainly be in the market for a starter but who is the question. Dan Haren is an interesting option if they can get him on a one-year deal. Roy Halladay is another, especially because it would be under similar circumstances to when they signed Kazmir a year ago.
Scott Feldman is another good option after posting a 12-12 W-L record and a 3.86 ERA in 181.2 innings.
Stay tuned for further updates.
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