A New Chapter Begins: Triston McKenzie Joins the Padres
It's a familiar story in the world of baseball: a promising young talent faces unexpected challenges. Right-handed pitcher Triston McKenzie is now looking to reignite his career with the San Diego Padres, having signed a minor league deal. This move presents an intriguing opportunity for both the player and the team. McKenzie, represented by Octagon, will also get an invite to the big league camp during spring training.
McKenzie, at 28 years old, is embarking on a new journey, marking his first time with an organization other than the Cleveland Guardians. He spent his entire career with the Guardians, a team where he once seemed destined for stardom.
Remember 2022? That was a breakout year for McKenzie. He pitched an impressive 191 1/3 innings with a stellar 2.96 earned run average. He showcased his dominance by striking out 25.6% of the batters he faced, while keeping his walks down to a mere 5.9%. But here's where it gets controversial... Unfortunately, his career has taken a downward turn since then.
In March 2023, a teres major strain sidelined him. Although he returned a few months later, a sprain of the ulnar collateral ligament in his throwing elbow was diagnosed. While he avoided surgery, he struggled to regain his previous form. After missing most of 2023, he returned in 2024, but his fastball velocity averaged only 91.1 miles per hour, a noticeable drop from the 92.5 mph he averaged two years earlier. His performance in 2024 included a 5.11 ERA over 16 starts. He then spent the final months of the season on an optional assignment, posting a 5.23 ERA at the Triple-A level.
He entered 2025 without any remaining options, but the Guardians weren't ready to give up on him. They avoided arbitration in November 2024 with a $1.95MM deal for 2025, a slight increase from the $1.6MM he made in 2024. He secured a bullpen spot to start the year but allowed seven earned runs in 5 2/3 innings before being designated for assignment. The other 29 teams passed on the chance to claim him off waivers.
After being removed from the roster, the Guardians sent him to the Complex League, presumably to help him rediscover his form. He was then sent to Triple-A Columbus in August. He pitched seven innings over eight relief appearances, allowing six earned runs. He did strike out 11 opponents, but also walked 17, hit one batter, and threw five wild pitches.
For the Padres, this minor league deal carries minimal risk. There's no guarantee of significant contributions, but the potential upside is considerable. He's likely to have a very modest salary if he makes the roster at any point. And this is the part most people miss... If he performs well and secures a roster spot by the end of the season, he could be eligible for arbitration in 2027.
What role will McKenzie play? That remains to be seen. He was primarily a starter until 2025, but he was used in relief this year. This might have been due to circumstances, given his lack of options and his struggle to find a path back to success. The Padres have an excellent bullpen, even after losing Robert Suarez. They have more pressing needs in their starting rotation.
Over the course of a long season, injuries are inevitable, and fresh arms will be needed in both the rotation and the bullpen. Given McKenzie's recent struggles, both he and the Padres would likely be thrilled with any form of success, whether he's starting or relieving.
What do you think? Will Triston McKenzie be able to revitalize his career with the Padres? Do you think he'll find success in the bullpen or as a starter? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
