The San Diego Padres have signed pitcher Triston McKenzie to a minor league deal that includes an invitation to spring training. This move comes as the Padres seek to enhance their rotation options ahead of the upcoming season. McKenzie, a 28-year-old right-handed pitcher, previously excelled with the Cleveland Guardians, where he recorded a career ERA of 4.07 over 442.0 innings.
The reunion between McKenzie and Ruben Niebla, who is currently the Padres’ pitching coach, adds an intriguing dynamic to this signing. Niebla played a significant role in McKenzie’s early development while serving as the Guardians’ minor league pitching coordinator and Major League assistant pitching coach. Their collaboration in Cleveland saw McKenzie achieve notable success, particularly during the 2022 season when he posted a remarkable 2.96 ERA across 191.1 innings, striking out 25.6 percent of the batters he faced.
In contrast, McKenzie’s 2023 season was marred by injuries that limited him to just four starts. Upon his return in 2024, his performance declined, resulting in an ERA of 5.11 and an increase in hits allowed, averaging 8.2 hits per nine innings. His struggles continued in the following season, where he appeared in only four games before being designated for assignment.
The Padres’ decision to sign McKenzie reflects a low-risk strategy that could yield high rewards if Niebla can help restore the pitcher’s form. In 2017, when he was still a prospect, McKenzie discussed how the Guardians had helped him refine his pitch mix, particularly by incorporating a changeup. However, recent seasons have seen McKenzie rely heavily on his fastball, throwing it approximately 80.5 percent of the time last season, according to Baseball Savant.
From the Padres’ perspective, McKenzie represents potential depth for their pitching staff. Depending on how they utilize him, he could either bolster the starting rotation or serve as a valuable asset in the bullpen. The connection between McKenzie and Niebla could prove pivotal in unlocking the pitcher’s full potential and replicating the success they achieved together in Cleveland.
As the Padres prepare for the upcoming season, the signing of Triston McKenzie highlights their commitment to improving their pitching staff while also providing a second chance for a talented player looking to return to elite form.
