The San Diego Padres and right-handed pitcher Triston McKenzie agreed to a minor league contract Thursday, according to multiple media reports.
McKenzie, 28, spent his entire career with the Cleveland Guardians, starting 80 games in 88 appearances over six seasons before becoming a free agent this offseason.
He amassed a 21-29 record with a 4.07 ERA and 462 strikeouts in 442 career innings with Cleveland. McKenzie notched 190 strikeouts and a 2.96 ERA while going 11-11 in 2022 before injuries derailed his momentum.
In 2023, McKenzie was sidelined after suffering an upper back strain. He returned before dealing with a right ulnar collateral ligament sprain, which cost him most of the season.
McKenzie struggled in 2024, posting a 5.11 ERA and 3-5 record in 16 starts at the major league level. He finished the season in Triple-A.
For the Guardians in 2025, McKenzie was limited to just 5 2/3 innings in four relief appearances. He posted an 11.12 ERA and 2.471 WHIP before being designated for assignment. McKenzie found himself in the Guardians’ farm system for the remainder of the season.
McKenzie reportedly received an invitation to the Padres’ spring training camp.
–Field level media
