Kazmir Unlikely to Start Opening Day

by R.J. Anderson on Feb 27, 2008 7:13 AM EST

ST. PETERSBURG - The news on Rays ace Scott Kazmir's left elbow appeared relatively good Tuesday night - no serious injury, but he's expected to be sidelined about two weeks, which makes it unlikely he'd be ready for the opening day start.

Per the Times, not great news, but better than hearing that he's heading for ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction surgery a.k.a Tommy John Surgery. I'd imagine this puts James Shields in line to take the hill on March 31st, and it'll be interesting whether Kazmir gets skipped the first time and second time through or if he'll simply go on the 15 day disabled list for some time in extended spring training.

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Re: Kazmir Unlikely to Start Opening Day

Is this one of those rest for 2 weeks but not on the DL, then put on the DL retroactive to some date, then returns from the DL, pitches a lousy game, returns to the DL for a longer period, then shutdown for the rest of the season, then undergoes Tommy John surgery around June type of injuries?

I hope not.

by gerzowitz on Feb 27, 2008 8:28 AM EST reply actions

Re: Kazmir Unlikely to Start Opening Day

Ah well at least we figured this out now, and not well into the season. And hopefully as gerzowitz said, nothing long-term (fingers crossed)

by DevilRayRomano on Feb 27, 2008 8:34 AM EST reply actions

Re: Kazmir Unlikely to Start Opening Day

Definitely sucks, but it could have been a lot worse.

by usfraysfan on Feb 27, 2008 9:09 AM EST reply actions

Re: Kazmir Unlikely to Start Opening Day

Ya, this couldve happened to Kaz:

http://www.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/asiapcf/02/27/australia.snake.ap/index.html

General Manager Manifesto Matt Bishoff

by Matt Bishoff on Feb 27, 2008 10:43 AM EST up reply actions

Re: Kazmir Unlikely to Start Opening Day

Also, who do we think will take over for Kaz while he is out? I think it will give Niemann a chance to make his case for the rotation.

by usfraysfan on Feb 27, 2008 10:12 AM EST reply actions

Re: Kazmir Unlikely to Start Opening Day

I think Niemann should be a lock over Sonnanstine and probably Jackson also. If Kazmir misses the beginning of the season Niemann should definitely be a lock if he's not already

I just dont see what good it does sending a 25/26 year old Niemann back to AAA

by blazinrayz on Feb 27, 2008 6:38 PM EST reply actions