Tampa gave up on Kazmir, but not on season

In 63 home dates going into last night, the Rays averaged 24,169. They should surpass last season’s attendance of just over 1.8 million. But they are 12th in the American League in attendance, well below the league average of 28,873. And they didn’t seem to get much of the usual boost with the Red Sox in town last night, drawing a mere 17,692 with the kids back to school.

So the Rays dumped underachieving lefthander Scott Kazmir, who would have started last night, when they lost to the Red Sox, 8-4. Kazmir had raised his game in his last three starts, just in time to be dealt - along with the $22 million left on his contract - to the Angels.

The Rays insist that trading Kazmir doesn’t mean they’re waving the white flag.

“I was a little surprised they would trade him,’’ said David Ortiz. “I mean, he’s a good pitcher, a lefty. He got us a lot, but we got him, too.

“I don’t know, I guess I’m surprised, but nothing surprises me in this game anymore. I don’t think it means they’ve given up. They still play hard.’’

Most Red Sox players weren’t about to question the ownership decisions of an opponent, but they seemed pleased that Kazmir won’t be around.

Kazmir is 8-7 with a 3.59 ERA over his career against Boston, including 2-0 this year. At Fenway, he is 6-4 lifetime with a 3.05 ERA.

“I don’t get into that stuff,’’ said Dustin Pedroia. “What did he have - more than $20 million left on his contract? It’s really none of my business. I’m sure they had a reason for what they did.’’

They wanted to save money.

Kazmir was never an ace, and his durability issues and high pitch counts early in games simply didn’t match the contract he signed after a terrific 2007 season.

Rays general manager Andrew Friedman completed the deal yesterday when he received promising second baseman Sean Rodriguez, lefthanded pitcher Alex Torres, and third baseman Matt Sweeney. All in all, they made a very good deal.