With the non-waiver Trade Deadline approaching, moves around the league could have an impact on the Yankees, whether they are targets on the Yankees board or acquisitions made by division opponents, looking to make up ground on the Bronx Bombers.
July 23
The Houston Astros acquired left-handed pitcher Scott Kazmir from the Oakland Athletics for right-handed pitcher Daniel Mengden and catcher Jacob Nottingham
#Athletics trade LHP Scott Kazmir to Houston for RHP Daniel Mengden and C Jacob Nottingham; recall RHP Arnold Leon
— Oakland Athletics (@Athletics) July 23, 2015
Entering today, the 31-year-old Kazmir pitched to a 5-5 record with a 2.38 ERA and 1.09 WHIP. In 109 2/3 innings, Kazmir struck out 101 and walked 35.
With the uncertainty expected of a CC Sabathia start, the caution expected with the elbow of Masahiro Tanaka, the increasing innings total of Michael Pineda and the return of Ivan Nova following Tommy John surgery; the idea of looking for additional help in the rotation was potentially on the mind of the Yankees. In the current shape of the Yankees, the necessity for a starting pitcher like Kazmir seemed thin. While “you can never have enough pitching” generally applies, the pitching as a whole has been fairly dependable. For the Yankees, there are likely more pressing needs.
Stay tuned to this post regarding all news involving trades made around the league and their effect on the Yankees, big or small.
