Some very good news here for the Athletics, who are certain to be sellers at this year’s trade deadline.
Susan Slusser of the San Francisco Chronicle reports that Scott Kazmir — who left his last start with a triceps injury — is expected to make his first scheduled start coming out of the All-Star break next Saturday night against the Twins. Kazmir long-tossed without issue on Saturday afternoon and he will throw a bullpen session early this week.
Kazmir has been bothered by various minor arm problems throughout the 2015 regular season, but the 31-year-old still owns a sharp 2.49 ERA, 1.12 WHIP, and 96/34 K/BB ratio in 101 1/3 innings.
If his health cooperates, Kazmir will be a big-time trade chip for Oakland.