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Guardians Designate Triston McKenzie For Assignment: What's Next?
about 1 year agoUS
The Cleveland Guardians have designated right-handed pitcher Triston McKenzie for assignment, marking a significant turning point for the former top prospect. This move coincides with the selection of righty Zak Kent from Triple-A Columbus. McKenzie, once seen as a potential cornerstone of Cleveland's rotation, has struggled to regain his form after a UCL injury in 2023.
Key Insights
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Triston McKenzie, a former first-round pick, has been designated for assignment by the Cleveland Guardians.
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McKenzie's performance declined significantly after a UCL injury in 2023, leading to command issues and increased home runs allowed.
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In 2022, McKenzie pitched 191 1/3 innings with a 2.96 ERA, showcasing his potential.
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Zak Kent has been promoted from Triple-A Columbus to take McKenzie's place on the roster.
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Any team claiming McKenzie would be taking on a reclamation project, hoping to unlock his previous potential.
Why this matters: McKenzie's designation represents a fall from grace for a player once highly regarded. It also highlights the challenges pitchers face in recovering from injuries and maintaining consistency.
In-Depth Analysis
Background
Triston McKenzie debuted with the Guardians in 2020, showing promise with a strong start. His 2022 season was a breakout year, but a UCL injury in 2023 derailed his progress. In 2024, his fastball velocity decreased, and his command faltered, leading to poor performance.
Recent Performance
In 2025, McKenzie began the season in the bullpen, hoping to regain his form. However, in 5 2/3 innings, he allowed seven runs with seven walks and only four strikeouts. Despite an increase in velocity in shorter relief stints, his command issues persisted.
Zak Kent's Promotion
Zak Kent, acquired by Cleveland in a March 2024 trade, has been promoted to the major league roster. Kent has pitched well in Triple-A Columbus, posting a 2.35 ERA in five relief appearances. This promotion marks Kent's MLB debut.
Potential Next Steps for McKenzie
The Guardians have seven days to trade McKenzie, place him on waivers, or release him. Given his previous prospect status, another team may take a chance on him, either through a minor trade or via waivers. However, any acquiring team would need to address his command issues and build him back up as a starter.
FAQs
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Q: What does it mean to be designated for assignment?
Designation for assignment (DFA) means a player is removed from the team's 40-man roster. The team has seven days to trade, waive, or release the player.
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Q: Why did the Guardians designate Triston McKenzie for assignment?
McKenzie struggled to regain his form after a UCL injury in 2023, leading to command issues and poor performance in his relief appearances in 2025.
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Q: Who is Zak Kent?
Zak Kent is a right-handed pitcher who was promoted from Triple-A Columbus to take McKenzie's place on the Guardians' roster. He was acquired by Cleveland in a trade with the Texas Rangers in March 2024.
Key Takeaways
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Triston McKenzie's career is at a crossroads after being designated for assignment by the Guardians.
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Other teams may see potential in McKenzie and offer him a chance to revive his career.
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Zak Kent's promotion provides an opportunity for him to make his MLB debut and contribute to the Guardians' bullpen.
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The Guardians are looking to improve their pitching staff by giving new opportunities to players like Kent.
Discussion
What do you think is next for Triston McKenzie? Which team might take a chance on him? Let us know your thoughts!
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