ASTROS LAND LEFTY KAZMIR FROM OAKLAND
The Houston Astros acquired pitcher Scott Kazmir from the Oakland Athletics for catcher Jacob Nottingham and pitcher Daniel Mengden.
What does it give the Houston Astros
In Houston, Kazmir will add a second quality left-hander for their rotation (behind ace Dallas Keuchel). Kazmir is a Houston native, so he appears to be a great fit for the surprisingly competitive Astros. Furthermore, they didn't have to part with their top pitching prospects to land him.
What does it give the Oakland Athletics
In Nottingham, the Athletics get a long-range catching prospect with pretty good upside. He has a long way to go but is a nice acquisition for an Oakland squad going nowhere in 2015. Ditto Mengden, a decent right-hander. Also, the A's have plenty of pitching options with Kazmir gone.
Fantasy impact
Kazmir's fantasy numbers may take a dip moving from Oakland's spacious park to homer-happy Houston. So buyer beware. Nottingham could be on the fantasy radar now and may be viewed as Oakland's long-range catcher of the future. Mengden doesn't appear to have as much upside but has time to fully develop.
