Angels release struggling lefty Kazmir

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 in 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.