Up until this week, Cleveland Guardians left-handed pitching prospect Doug Nikhazy was actually in contention to make the team out of camp.
He could have been a starter or a reliever in the majors, depending on how the Guards decided to build their roster.
However, earlier this week, the Los Angeles Dodgers sent him crashing back down to earth.
In his most recent start against them, he allowed seven runs in just 1.2 innings, surrendering four hits and four walks while striking out a pair.
Cleveland will now be moving forward without him in their pitching staff to start the season.
“The Guardians have optioned lefty Doug Nikhazy to Triple-A Columbus. Spring roster stands at 49,” team insider Tim Stebbins wrote on his X account.
The Guardians have optioned lefty Doug Nikhazy to Triple-A Columbus. Spring roster stands at 49.
— Tim Stebbins (@tim_stebbins) March 15, 2025
Before that outing against the reigning World Series champs, Nikhazy had thrown seven scoreless frames with ten strikeouts.
He had been amazing throughout the entire Cactus League until that game, but he just wasn’t ready for LA’s high-powered offense.
Now, Nikhazy’s spring ERA went up to 7.27 in 8.2 innings.
He will continue his development in Triple-A for the time being, although it’ll be more like waiting for an opportunity to come.
He might not have much development left to do in the minors: if he is going to improve and come up with the things he needs to consistently retire tough offenses, his innings will have to come in the majors.
He posted a 2.87 ERA in 75.1 frames in Columbus during the 2024 campaign, after dominating in Double-A, too.
For now, Nikhazy will have to be patient.
Injuries, however, could potentially open up a spot either in the rotation or in the bullpen.
NEXT: Josh Naylor Has Honest Admission About His Trade From Guardians
