Cleveland, Ohio – The Guardians have made a significant roster move by designating right-hander Triston McKenzie for assignment. In his place, they have called up righty Zak Kent from Triple-A Columbus. This decision comes after McKenzie’s struggles dating back to 2023, where he faced challenges following a UCL injury that sidelined him for a significant portion of the season.
McKenzie, once considered a potential cornerstone in Cleveland’s rotation, has faced setbacks with his performance after being unable to regain his form. Despite a promising stretch in 2022, where he showcased his talent with a 2.96 ERA, McKenzie’s trajectory took a downturn due to injuries and a drop in velocity. His struggles on the mound have led to the Guardians exploring other options to solidify their pitching staff.
In an effort to bolster their rotation, the Guardians have added Luis Ortiz from the Pirates and retained Shane Bieber on a two-year deal amidst his recovery from Tommy John surgery. McKenzie’s move to the bullpen at the start of the 2025 season was intended to reignite his potential, but he has continued to face challenges with his command and performance.
As McKenzie’s future with the Guardians remains uncertain, the team now has the option to trade him or place him on outright waivers. This decision will need to be made within the next five days, with a resolution expected within a week. McKenzie’s current salary and potential for improvement present an opportunity for another team to take a chance on him and help him rediscover his form.
Meanwhile, Zak Kent, a former Rangers prospect, will make his MLB debut after being called up from Triple-A Columbus. Despite dealing with injuries in the past, Kent has shown promise with his consistent performance in the minor leagues. His promotion to the major league roster presents an opportunity for him to showcase his abilities and contribute to the Guardians’ pitching staff.
Kent’s track record in the minors, coupled with his recent success in Columbus, positions him as a promising addition to the Guardians’ bullpen. With his solid performance and potential for growth, Kent’s arrival in the big leagues brings a fresh perspective for the team as they navigate their pitching options for the season ahead.