The Los Angeles Dodgers signed pitcher Scott Kazmir to a three-year, $48 million contract before the 2016 season to be an essential part of the team’s starting rotation. Kazmir’s addition came after Zack Greinke signed a record deal with the Arizona Diamondbacks.
After struggling for much of 2016 and ending the season on the disabled list, Kazmir went into Spring Training with plenty to prove and optimistic injuries were behind him. But an offseason filled with exercises aimed at improving flexibility and alleviating hip trouble were a wash.
Kazmir began the season on the disabled list and has spent the majority of his time at the Dodgers’ Spring Training facility. He recently was said to be completing a throwing program aimed at increasing velocity.
That’s expanded to Kazmir throwing with a weighted ball as he continues the quest to pitch for the Dodgers this season, which manager Dave Roberts still anticipates, per J.P. Hoornstra of the Southern California News Group:
Scott Kazmir is using a weighted ball program to increase the speed of his pitches in Arizona. Roberts said that Kazmir’s fastball velocity is up to 90-92 mph and is still expected to return to the team this year.
The Dodgers currently have an influx of starting pitching, as Clayton Kershaw, Alex Wood, Rich Hill, Brandon McCarthy and Hyun-Jin Ryu are all healthy and currently comprise the starting rotation.
Kenta Maeda has struggled a bit in recent weeks, so he’s joined another capable starter in Ross Stripling in the bullpen. Meanwhile, Julio Urias and Brock Stewart are with Triple-A Oklahoma City, and make for other viable starting options.
Due to their depth, there is no reason for the Dodgers to rush Kazmir back. However, considering his time missed and struggles during Spring Training, it’s unlikely the southpaw will make much of an impact if or when he manages to take the mound for the Dodgers.
