Angels Give Up On Struggling Pitcher Scott Kazmir

SEATTLE (AP) -- The Los Angeles Angels have given up on struggling left-hander Scott Kazmir, releasing the once promising starter.

Kazmir was released by the Angels on Wednesday as they closed out a three-game series in Seattle.

Once considered among the most promising young starters is baseball, Kazmir has seen a rapid descent. He made his fifth rehab start on Tuesday night at Triple-A Salt Lake and gave up six runs on five hits in just 1 2-3 innings. In five starts with Salt Lake, Kazmir had a 17.02 ERA in 15 1-3 innings, giving up 29 earned runs and 22 hits.

Kazmir made just one start for the Angels this season, giving up five earned runs in 1 2-3 innings on April 3 against Kansas City.

He was placed on the disabled list April 8 with lower back soreness.

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