Guardians send Triston McKenzie to AAA, activate Gavin Williams

CLEVELAND, Ohio (92.3 The Fan) – Triston McKenzie has struggled with his command and keeping the ball in the ballpark this season.

Now he’s headed back to Triple-A.

McKenzie was optioned to Columbus Sunday morning and right hander Gavin Williams was activated from the 60-day injured list.

McKenzie, who has failed to get out of the fourth inning in his last three starts, has allowed 19 home runs and walked 49 batters in just 16 starts this season. His ERA has climbed over five.

McKenzie missed significant time last season with shoulder and elbow injuries. He had been pitching with a partial tear of a ligament in his pitching elbow but continues to not use the injury as an excuse.

McKenzie recently told 92.3 The Fan the injury was not limiting him or affecting his command and his goal was to push through this season, eat as many innings as possible and make all of his starts regardless of the results.

Williams was shut down in spring training due to a right elbow injury and his rehab in April was slowed following additional soreness.

The club also designated right hander Darren McCaughan for assignment. McCaughan was acquired earlier this year from Miami for cash.