Joey Cantillo 'Has Opportunity To Impact' Guardians Roster In 2024
The Cleveland Guardians called up three rookie starting pitchers to make their big league debut in 2023. That each shined in its own right and has not found full-time spots in the rotation heading into this season.
Joey Cantillo (Cleveland's 11th-ranked prospect per MLB Pipeline) could possibly be the next arm to make the jump to the major league level. New Guardians manager Stephen Vogt raved about Cantillo during his media availability on Thursday.
"I've heard some things from the organization but going off of what I've seen, this is a focused and determined kid," said Vogt. "He's worked tirelessly. Every time he takes the mound, I've seen him throw two or three live [bullpens] now, there's a focus and an intent from this kid. I want to watch him pitch, that's the feeling I get.
"He's obviously worked really hard to get to the point where he is and he's got an opportunity to crack the roster at some point this year. He's developed really well and I think he could be a big-time arm for us. But just his focus and determination really stand out to me."
Cleveland Guardians prospect Joey Cantillo pitches for the Columbus Clippers.
Cantillo made 18 starts for the Columbus Clippers (Triple-A) last season. In those appearances has had a 4.64 ERA and 1.516 WHIP. There's still some development that needs to be done, but his 10.5 SO is just one indicator he has the plate presence to throw a lot of strikes.
Given that the rotation is already set barring any last minutes changes, the opportunity Vogt is alluding to will likely come later in the season. Cantillo may be the first Perhaps if one of the current starters gets injured or traded
