The Los Angeles Dodgers on Friday transferred Scott Kazmir to the 60-day disabled list as one of two corresponding moves to clear room on the 40-man roster for Mike Freeman and Chris Heston, who were claimed off waivers from the Seattle Mariners.
The paper move changed nothing in regards to Kazmir’s status, other than delay when he’s eligible to be activated. He began the season on the 10-day DL, retroactive to March 30.
Kazmir joined the Dodgers at Chase Field near the end of April, and reunited with the club once they concluded that road trip. He threw bullpen sessions both times, and though a return wasn’t considered imminent, Kazmir wasn’t thought to be too far off.
However, the Dodgers sent the southpaw back to Camelback Ranch for a throwing program aimed at improving arm speed.
“The velocity has ticked up,” manager Dave Roberts said Friday. “We got him on the gun at 90-92 off the mound, so that’s really encouraging.” While a positive development, Kazmir has previously reached this step only to suffer a setback.
What’s more, there still is not a timeline for his return. “When he goes on a rehab assignment I’m not sure yet,” Roberts added.
Hip trouble that carried over from last season and compromised mechanics limited Kazmir to just three starts during Spring Training. One of which was cut short due to the hip injury. Kazmir labored through the other two outings, including issuing five walks and hitting two batters in his final spring start.
