Padres land RHP Triston McKenzie on minor league deal

Field Level Media|published: Thu 18th December, 21:27 2025

Apr 5, 2025; Anaheim, California, USA;Cleveland Guardians relief pitcher Triston McKenzie (24) delivers to the plate in the fifth inning against the Los Angeles Angels at Angel Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

The San Diego Padres and right-handed pitcher Triston McKenzie agreed to a minor league contract on Thursday, according to multiple media reports.

McKenzie, 28, had 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 sustaining an upper back strain. He returned before dealing with a sprain of his right ulnar collateral ligament, costing him almost all of that season.

McKenzie struggled in 2024, posting a 5.11 ERA and a 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 over four relief appearances. He posted an 11.12 ERA and 2.471 WHIP before being designated for assignment. McKenzie ended up back in the Guardians' farm system for the rest of the season.

McKenzie reportedly will receive an invite to the Padres' spring training camp.

--Field Level Media

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