LA Angels Rotation Switcheroo: Matt Palmer replaces ailing Kazmir

Apparently, the rigorous conditioning program that Los Angeles Angels starting pitcher Scott Kazmir went through this past offseason to improve flexibility wasn’t effective. Kazmir, who stumbled out of the gate in his first start of the season against the Kansas City Royals, has been placed on the 15-day disabled list with tightness in his lower back. Matt Palmer has been recalled from Triple-A Salt Lake to replace Kazmir on the roster, and will make the start tonight against the Toronto Blue Jays. Kazmir was tagged for five hits, five runs and two walks while hitting two batters and committing a balk in 1 2-3 innings against Kansas City last week. In spring training, Kazmir posted a 6.64 ERA in six starts while trying to rebound from a horrific 2010 season, during which he went 9-15 with a 5.94 ERA. It’s obviously a smart move for the Angels, as it allows Kazmir to get completely healthy and go on a long rehabilitation stint while trying to figure out his difficulties o...