Kazmir is AL Pitcher of the Month

Posted Jun 2, 2008 by Marc Lancaster

Updated Jun 2, 2008 at 05:22 PM

Scott Kazmir has been named the American League Pitcher of the Month for May. He becomes the first Ray to earn AL Player or Pitcher of the Month honors in the franchise’s 11-year history.

Kazmir went 5-1 with a 1.22 ERA in six starts after coming off the disabled list May 4. He lost that day at Fenway Park but has been lights-out since then, allowing just two runs and 16 hits in 33 innings while winning each of his next five starts.

The Rays were kind enough to pass along a quote from Kazmir before the team charter took off for Boston:

“It’s a nice honor,” he said. ” Everything is coming along well and my arm strength is getting better.  I’ve got great defense behind me.  I hope to continue to progress as the season goes on.”

Kazmir will receive a trophy and an LCD TV to commemorate his award.

Other nominees receiving votes included Pinellas Park’s Jesse Litsch, Roy Halladay, Daisuke Matsuzaka and Bobby Jenks.

Earlier today, MLB announced former Ray Josh Hamilton won the Player of the Month award for the second consecutive month, the first player to do that since Mark McGwire in April and May, 1998. B.J. Upton was among those receiving votes for the honor.