Starting pitcher Triston McKenzie has been optioned to Triple-A following a six-run meltdown against the Twins Friday night. That was the third time in his last four starts that he has allowed five runs in 4.1 or fewer innings.
The Indians are optioning Triston McKenzie to Triple-A Columbus and recalling reliever Kyle Nelson.
— Zack Meisel (@ZackMeisel) May 22, 2021
McKenzie’s ERA before his demotion was 6.89 and he was walking 8.62 batters per nine innings. His command has seemingly left completely over his last few outings, and even with a strikeout rate approaching 13 per nine, he was giving up too many hits that allowed the free baserunners to come home.