On Saturday, both the Twins and the Indians added considerable depth to their minor league pitching ranks — and possibly their big league rotations.
Minnesota picked up right-hander Rich Harden, while Cleveland acquired lefty Scott Kazmir.
Harden’s deal also includes an invitation to the Twins spring training to compete for a spot.
The 31-year old missed the 2012 season following surgery to repair a torn capsule in his right shoulder, but he’s reportedly healthy now and trying for a comeback.
Harden was a 17th-round draft pick in 2000 out of Central Arizona College and spent seven years in Oakland. His career record is 59-38, with a 3.76 ERA and 949 strikeouts over 928 1-3 innings.
It will be interesting if he makes it to the 40-man roster, and whether the Twins will use him as a starter or reliever.
Meanwhile, the Tribe’s deal with Kazmir also includes a spring training invite.
Kazmir hasn’t pitch in the majors since April 2011, and struggled in his last big league season.
In his 55 starts since 2008, Kazmir has posted a 19-24 record with an ugly 5.54 ERA. Still, there’s nothing wrong with a low-risk minor league deal.
Leave A Comment...