Which Kazmir will it be?

Posted Jun 27, 2009 by Tribune Sports

Updated Jun 27, 2009 at 03:11 PM

ST. PETERSBURG—Scott Kazmir says he’s got his mechanical issues worked out and he’s ready to go. We’ll find out in a few hours.

The Rays’ most enigmatic player has been activated from the disabled list and will make his first start since May 20 toinght against the Marlins. He comes off a rehab start at Triple-A Durham Monday in which he pitched well, allowing one earned run on five hits and striking out five while walking none in six innings.

Kazmir is the Rays’ all-time leader in wins, innings pitched strikeouts, starts, ERA and quality starts, but he went 1-3 with an 11.35 ERA in his last five starts with the club.

The Rays are five games over .500 for the first time this season, and they’re looking to improve to 4-1 on a six-game home stand tonight.

Here’s Tampa Bay’s lineup:

B.J. Upton, CF
Carl Crawford, LF
Evan Longoria, 3B
Carlos Pena, 1B
Ben Zobrist, 2B
Pat Burrell, DH
Gabe Gross, RF
Jason Bartlett, SS
Michel Hernandez, C
—
Scott Kazmir, LHP