BREAKING: Former Guardians pitcher Triston McKenzie has signed a minor league deal with the San Diego Padres and will report to spring training in February 2024. This move comes after a tumultuous year for McKenzie, marked by injuries and disappointing performances.
McKenzie, a one-time top prospect for the Cleveland Guardians, struggled significantly last season. After starting his career with promise, he opened 2023 in the bullpen but made only four appearances before being designated for assignment following a rough outing against Baltimore on April 16. His season saw him post an alarming 11.12 ERA in the majors and a 7.17 ERA in the minors, raising questions about his future in the sport.
In total, McKenzie had a challenging stint in the minors this past season, going 0-3 with a 7.17 ERA in 21 1/3 innings. He struck out 31 batters but matched that with 31 walks, indicating ongoing control issues. McKenzie was the second overall pick in the 2015 MLB draft, receiving a substantial signing bonus of $2.3 million after being selected out of Royal Palm Beach High School in Florida.
Despite his struggles, McKenzie had a standout season in 2022, recording an 11-11 record with a 2.96 ERA in 31 games, showcasing his potential. However, injuries in 2023 plagued his ability to contribute, including a strained muscle in his shoulder that sidelined him early in the season. He later dealt with a right elbow strain, leading to discussions about Tommy John surgery, which he opted to avoid in favor of rehab.
Now, McKenzie reunites with former Guardians pitching coach Ruben Niebla in San Diego, who is expected to play a crucial role in his development. McKenzie’s move to the Padres represents a significant opportunity for him to revive his career and reclaim the promise that once made him a coveted prospect.
As McKenzie prepares for spring training, all eyes will be on how he rebounds from the challenges of the past year. The Padres are hopeful that McKenzie can harness his potential and become a key asset for their pitching staff.
Fans and analysts alike are eager to see if this change of scenery will spark a turnaround for McKenzie as he embarks on this new chapter with the Padres. Stay tuned for further updates on his progress and performance as spring training approaches.
