Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
One of the best stories in baseball might have ended.
The Giants designated Scott Kazmir for assignment Saturday, one day after he went two innings in which he allowed two runs against the Cubs. With the extra 26-man roster spot, the Giants recalled electric, if raw, righty Camilo Doval.
Kazmir had not pitched in the majors in nearly five years before he appeared at Giants spring training to fight for a spot. He extended himself in Triple-A Sacramento then made his return May 22, in a solid, four-inning outing against the Dodgers.
The 37-year-old followed it up with two poor appearances, though, and the Giants could not option the lefty, who likely will not be claimed. It is unclear if he wants to continue his comeback, but it would likely involve his going back down to Sacramento. Kazmir, who has had several personal issues to sort through, may choose to go home to Texas.
The Giants’ starting depth has taken a hit in the past few days, as the DFA of Nick Tropeano preceded the release of Kazmir. The Giants have promoted lefty Sammy Long and righty Matt Frisbee up to Triple-A, and both have emerged as major league options this year.
Doval, meanwhile, showed excellent stuff with the Giants in mid-April through mid-May, before he was sent down with a 7.59 ERA in 10 2/3 innings, in which he walked six and allowed four home runs.
He had not allowed a run in his past four appearances with Sacramento, in which he struck out five in 3 1/3 innings, but walked three. After Kazmir’s brief start Friday, the Giants went with a bullpen game, and his right arm may be needed quickly.
Speaking of Sacramento, the Giants extended Tyler Beede‘s rehab assignment by 10 days, giving the righty more time to find his command. In his most recent start, Friday, he allowed six runs in four innings while walking three.
Pitchers rehabbing from Tommy John surgery can have their rehab assignments extended past the 30-day limit in 10-day increments as many as three times.
The Giants could have activated Brandon Belt on Saturday, but they did not before the game at Oracle Park against the Cubs. Gabe Kapler said the first baseman could return Sunday.
LaMonte Wade Jr. was at first instead against Chicago righty Kohl Stewart. The full lineup:
1. LaMonte Wade, 1B
2. Alex Dickerson, LF
3. Evan Longoria, 3B
4. Brandon Crawford, SS
5. Steven Duggar, CF
6. Mike Tauchman, RF
7. Jason Vosler, 2B
8. Chadwick Tromp, C
9. Kevin Gausman, P
Austin Slater got more pregame reps at first base. Alex Dickerson took ground balls at the position Thursday. The Giants are trying to create some options, especially with Steven Duggar‘s emergence taking up an outfield spot.