Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts announced Scott Kazmir is set to start for Triple-A Oklahoma City on Wednesday. Kazmir’s rehab outing, which is expected to last 90 pitches or six innings, is coming in Game 1 of the playoffs.
OKC clinched its second consecutive Pacific Coast League American Northern Division title and will face the Nashville Sounds (Oakland Athletics affiliate) in the first-round matchup. Kazmir last pitched in a simulated game on Aug. 30.
Neck and upper back inflammation forced him to the 15-day disabled list on Aug. 23. Kazmir became the Dodgers’ 27th different player put on the DL this season, tying a Major League record.
He was cautiously optimistic after the simulated game, during which he focused on improving fastball command.
Should all go well for Kazmir in the rehab assignment, Roberts said the southpaw would be activated to start a game during the Dodgers’ road series with the New York Yankees (Sept. 12-14).
Kazmir is 10-6 on the season with a 4.59 ERA, 4.49 FIP and 1.35 WHIP. He has struck out 134 and walked 52 in 135.1 innings of work.
Issues with command led to Kazmir turning in short outings, as he managed to complete at least six innings in just four of his last 10 starts.
Kazmir is one of multiple starting pitchers the Dodgers are expecting to return this month.
