Scott Kazmir designated for assignment

The inspiring Scott Kazmir comeback story has, at least temporarily, come to a halt. On Saturday, a day after Kazmir made his second start of the season, the San Francisco Giants designated him for assignment.

Susan Slusser of the San Francisco Chronicle was first to report the news.

Kazmir was a great story when he decided to make a comeback — apparently at the behest of a friend at a barbecue — five years after throwing his last MLB pitch. The Giants gave him a Minor League contract, assigned him to AAA, and then called him up when the starting pitcher injuries started to occur.

The 37-year old lefty made two starts, and allowed 8 hits, 1 walk, and 5 earned runs in 7 innings, while striking out 7. Not nice numbers, but account for rust and quality of opponent — the Los Angeles Dodgers and Chicago Cubs — there were some encouraging signs. But with Aaron Sanchez — and Tyler Beede, for that matter — nearing a return, the Giants must have felt there wasn’t a need for the starting pitcher depth on the active roster.

Still, Kazmir will almost surely clear waivers, so it would seem there’s a good chance that he gets re-assigned to Sacramento.

Update: According to Slusser, Kazmir — who was on the Restricted List last week — was mourning the loss of his best friend. Hoping for healing for him and his family.