Astros pull off trade to bring pitcher Scott Kazmir to Houston

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- The Astros have bolstered their starting rotation by pulling off a trade with the Oakland Athletics, the team announced today.

Houston gets left handed pitcher Scott Kazmir in exchange for for two minor leaguers, right-handed pitcher Daniel Mengden and catcher Jacob Nottingham.

Kazmir, 31, has a 5-5 record this season with a 2.38 ERA in 18 starts. He will join the team in Kansas City.

"Scott Kazmir is one of the best pitchers in the American League and strengthens our rotation," said Astros GM Jeff Luhnow. "His addition gives the Astros a better chance of reaching and succeeding in the postseason. It has been a while since the Astros have been relevant late in the summer and winning now is a priority."

Kazmir is a native Houstonian, having attended Cy Fallas before being drafted by the Mets in 2002.