Diamondbacks Outright Kyle Nelson
Briefly

Kyle Nelson was outrighted to Triple-A Reno after clearing waivers, having been designated for assignment. He faces a decision on free agency but is likely to stay with the Diamondbacks to collect his $825K salary. His previous performance in 2023 was solid, but recent struggles post-surgery have led to decreased efficacy on the mound. Nelson has seen decreased strikeout and increased walk rates along with diminished velocity in Triple-A. Reports suggest he will attempt to regain form in an effort to return to the major leagues or seek minor league free agency if not reinstated.
Kyle Nelson, a left-hander for the Diamondbacks, has been outrighted to Triple-A Reno after clearing waivers, following his designation for assignment last week. Nelson has the right to elect free agency but is unlikely to do so, as he wishes to keep his $825K salary for the year. Previously a valuable player for Arizona, Nelson faced challenges due to surgery for thoracic outlet syndrome in 2024. His current performance in Triple-A shows a significant decline in metrics, leading to a lack of claims from other clubs.
In the 2023 season, Kyle Nelson pitched 56 innings with a 4.18 earned run average, showcasing a strong 28% strikeout rate complemented by a mere 5.9% walk rate. Unfortunately, after undergoing surgery early in 2024 for thoracic outlet syndrome, his return in 2025 has not yielded positive results, leading to an ERA of 8.47 in 17 Triple-A innings, with diminished velocity and performance metrics well below his major league stats.
Nelson's optional assignment at Triple-A how he attempted to regain form post-surgery, as he battles to improve his 14.6% strikeout rate and 9.8% walk rate. With no other clubs putting in a claim, it's a critical juncture for him to possibly reinstate his status within the major leagues.
Assuming Kyle Nelson accepts his assignment to Reno, he aims to improve his statistics and possibly return to major league pitching. If he is not added back to the 40-man roster by the end of the year, he can elect minor league free agency.
Read at MLB Trade Rumors
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