MLB

Ex-Yankee Ian Kennedy earns spot in Diamondbacks’ rotation

GOODYEAR, Ariz. — Ian Kennedy has impressed his manager enough to earn a spot in the Arizona Diamondbacks’ rotation.

Kennedy allowed two runs, including a solo homer to Grady Sizemore, over six innings, but the Cleveland Indians, behind Fausto Carmona’s seven scoreless innings, beat the Diamondbacks 2-0 on Saturday.

“We penciled him in (to start), but wanted him to win the job,” Diamondbacks manager A.J. Hinch said. “He’s showed that he’s ready.”

The right-hander gave up five hits and struck out three to continue his solid spring. Kennedy was a part of the deal that sent Curtis Granderson to the Yankees.

After posting a 1.90 ERA in three starts with the Yankees in 2007, Kennedy started 2008 in the rotation. But in a season filled with injuries and struggles, Kennedy went 0-4 with an 8.17 ERA in nine starts. Kennedy was slated to start 2009 in the minor leagues, but was diagnosed with an aneurysm under his right armpit in May. Kennedy returned and was one of the Yankees September call-ups and pitched one scoreless inning of relief.

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Also in that trade was top Yankees prospect Austin Jackson, who was named the Tigers starting center fielder and leadoff man.

With AP