Cleveland Guardians DFA Former Star Pitcher

April 22, 2025

The Cleveland Guardians designated right-hander Triston McKenzie for assignment on Monday, a significant shift for a pitcher once viewed as a cornerstone of their rotation. 

McKenzie, 27, posted an 11.12 ERA over just 5.2 innings in four relief appearances this season after being moved to the bullpen during spring training. Once among the sport’s most promising young arms, his career has been derailed by injuries to his shoulder and elbow that limited him to just 20 starts over the past two seasons. 

With no minor league options remaining, Cleveland made the move to open a roster spot, calling up right-hander Zak Kent from Triple-A Columbus.

McKenzie’s fall has been steep since his breakout 2022 season, when he went 11–11 with a 2.96 ERA and 190 strikeouts across 191.1 innings. He made two postseason starts that year and looked poised to lead the Guardians’ rotation for years to come. 

But injuries and command issues took a toll—he walked over 14 percent of hitters in 2024 and struggled to regain his form, velocity, and pitch control. Manager Stephen Vogt acknowledged the difficulty of the decision, saying, “It was really difficult to find innings for Triston, and that’s what led to the decision.”

Cleveland now has seven days to trade McKenzie or place him on outright waivers. 

If he goes unclaimed, the team can release him or assign him to the minors. McKenzie, earning $1.95 million this season and under team control through 2027, may still draw interest from clubs hoping to revive the talent that once made him a fan favorite and top prospect. 

“We wish Triston well, regardless of if he gets claimed or stays with us,” Vogt added.

Photo Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images

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