Cleveland Guardians Designate Former Ace Triston McKenzie Amid Struggles, Stand By Closer Emmanuel Clase
By Nexio News
The Cleveland Guardians made a tough roster decision Monday, designating right-handed pitcher Triston McKenzie for assignment after a string of injuries and underwhelming performances. The move comes as the 27-year-old, once seen as a future ace, failed to regain his 2022 form following multiple arm setbacks.
McKenzie, a first-round pick in 2015, dazzled during his breakout 2022 season, posting an 11-11 record with a stellar 2.96 ERA and 190 strikeouts. His dominance earned him two postseason starts and cemented his status as a fan favorite. But since then, injuries have derailed his career. A right shoulder strain sidelined him for three months in 2023, followed by a right elbow sprain that cost him another three months last season.
This year, his struggles deepened. After being moved to the bullpen in spring training, McKenzie allowed 11 earned runs in just four appearances, resulting in an alarming 11.12 ERA. His last outing on April 16 saw him surrender four runs in a single inning against the Baltimore Orioles.
“Finding consistent innings for Triston became really difficult, and that led to this decision,” Guardians manager Stephen Vogt admitted. “It’s especially tough given his history with this team.”
The Guardians now have seven days to either trade McKenzie or place him on waivers. In his place, Cleveland called up right-hander Zak Kent from Triple-A Columbus ahead of their series opener against the New York Yankees.
Despite the move, Vogt expressed hope for McKenzie’s future. “We wish Triston well, whether he gets claimed or stays in the organization,” he said.
Clase Retains Closer Role Despite Early Struggles
While McKenzie’s departure dominated headlines, Vogt also addressed another pitching concern: the shaky start of All-Star closer Emmanuel Clase. The 27-year-old reliever, a two-time Mariano Rivera AL Reliever of the Year winner, has uncharacteristically struggled this season, allowing nine runs and 20 hits in just 10 1/3 innings. His 7.84 ERA includes a blown save Sunday in Pittsburgh, his second failed opportunity in six chances.
Clase’s recent woes stand in stark contrast to his dominant 2023 campaign, where he led the league with 47 saves and an astonishing 0.61 ERA. Yet Vogt remains unwavering in his support.
“I haven’t even considered replacing him,” Vogt said. “He’s leaving too many pitches over the plate, and there are adjustments to make, but Emmanuel Clase will be our closer when he’s available.”
The Guardians, currently in the thick of the AL Central race, will need both their bullpen and rotation to stabilize as they push for a playoff berth. McKenzie’s departure marks the end of an era, but Cleveland’s faith in Clase suggests they’re betting on experience to turn things around.
— Reported by Nexio News
