Giants DFA veteran left-hander Kazmir

June 5th, 2021

SAN FRANCISCO -- Scott Kazmir completed one of the most remarkable comebacks in recent memory when he returned to the Majors for the first time since 2016, but his stint with the Giants is likely over. 

Kazmir was designated for assignment on Saturday to clear a roster spot for rookie reliever Camilo Doval, who was recalled from Triple-A Sacramento to give the Giants a fresh bullpen arm ahead of Saturday’s matchup with the Cubs. 

A three-time All-Star, Kazmir joined the Giants on a Minor League deal earlier this year and made his first big league start in nearly five years when he was called up to face the Dodgers on May 22. Kazmir held Los Angeles to a solo home run by Max Muncy over four innings in his first Major League outing since Sept. 23, 2016. 

Overall, Kazmir logged a 6.43 ERA over three appearances (two starts) for San Francisco this year. The 37-year-old veteran returned from personal leave to make a spot start against Chicago in place of the injured Logan Webb on Friday, but he gave up a two-run home run to Kris Bryant and lasted only two innings.

The Giants needed five relievers to get through Friday’s bullpen game, prompting them to bring Doval back into the fold on Saturday. Doval recorded a 7.59 ERA over his first 13 appearances with the Giants this year, but the 23-year-old rookie boasts an electric arsenal that includes a triple-digit fastball and a wipeout slider. He looked sharp in his most recent outings with Triple-A Sacramento, delivering 3 1/3 scoreless innings over his last four appearances. 

If Kazmir clears waivers, he could remain in the Giants organization if he accepts an outright assignment to Triple-A Sacramento. 

Vosler makes first start at 2B

With Wilmer Flores and Donovan Solano receiving days off, utility man Jason Vosler made his first Major League start at second base on Saturday. Vosler is primarily a corner infielder, but he has Minor League experience at second and drilled a pinch-hit home run against the Cubs -- his former organization -- in the Giants’ 8-5 win on Friday night. 

“Vos is prepared to play second base for us,” manager Gabe Kapler said. “We got him reps during camp. [Bench coach] Kai [Correa] has worked with him regularly over there. We’re comfortable that he’s going to be fine at second today.” 

Giants host Pride Day

As part of their celebration of Pride Month, the Giants on Saturday became the first Major League team to incorporate Pride colors into their on-field uniforms. In honor of San Francisco Pride Day, the Giants donned Pride colors on the SF logo on the right sleeve of their jerseys and on their caps.