The Cleveland Guardians will call up left-hander Doug Nikhazy ahead of Friday’s game against the Boston Red Sox.
They need, and want, to have some options in their bullpen, and if they can go multiple innings like Nikhazy, even better.
Because of their need to cover innings, Cleveland is sending down right-hander Zak Kent to the minor leagues, specifically to Triple-A Columbus.
“Cleveland #Guardians have optioned RHP Zak Kent to Triple-A Columbus,” Guardians Prospective posted on X.
Cleveland #Guardians have optioned RHP Zak Kent to Triple-A Columbus.
— Guardians Prospective (@CleGuardPro) April 25, 2025
Kent was very impressive on Wednesday against the New York Yankees in their series finale.
However, since he covered three innings, he probably won’t be available on Friday or Saturday.
That’s why the team is bringing up Nikhazy.
Kent definitely took advantage of his chance to impress, though.
Over those three frames on Wednesday, he surrendered one run on three hits and two walks.
He struck out four, including Aaron Judge with the bases loaded.
It was his MLB debut, and he showed nerves of steel, limiting damage and getting five swings and misses in the process.
His sinker surpassed 94 mph and looked excellent, and he showed the poise of a major leaguer.
It probably won’t be in the upcoming days, but Kent will definitely be back this year at some point to help the Guardians.
He definitely earned that right.
In Triple-A, he has enjoyed a solid season to this point with a 2.35 ERA in 7.2 innings as a reliever.
The talent is there for him to become a solid MLB pitcher, but he will have to work hard to improve if he wants to make the Guardians bullpen for good.
NEXT: Guardians To Promote Spring Star Ahead Of Friday's Game
