CLEVELAND, July 27, 2025 — Cleveland Guardians left-hander Joey Cantillo is generating buzz as a potential breakout pitcher for the 2026 season, according to a recent assessment by former MLB executive Steve Phillips. The promising young arm could be poised to make a significant impact, adding depth to an already exciting pitching staff.
Cantillo’s Rising Stock: A Sleeper No More?
Former GM Steve Phillips believes Cantillo has the stuff to become a key contributor for Cleveland.
- Joey Cantillo impressed in a limited starting role for the Guardians in September 2025.
- Former MLB general manager Steve Phillips identified Cantillo as a potential breakout candidate on MLB Network Radio.
- Cantillo boasts a high strikeout rate, exceeding the number of innings he’s pitched.
- The Guardians’ pitching rotation is currently crowded, meaning Cantillo will need to earn his spot during spring training.
Phillips, appearing on MLB Network Radio, highlighted Cantillo as a pitcher to watch, comparing his potential to that of Jacob Misiorowski, Trey Yesavage, and Cam Schlittle – all players who made an impact for their respective teams last season.
“The guy I like is Joey Cantillo for the Cleveland Guardians. I really like him,” Phillips said. “I liked him a couple of years ago, and they brought him in relief a little bit. He got an opportunity [to start] last year. He’s an intriguing guy for me that I think – he strikes out more than innings pitched. I’m encouraged to see what he can do this year.”
Jul 27, 2025; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Cleveland Guardians starting pitcher Joey Cantillo (54) delivers a pitch against the Kansas City Royals during the first inning at Kauffman Stadium.
Cantillo’s late-season performance in 2025 certainly supports the optimism. Initially utilized out of the bullpen, he transitioned into a starting role in September, posting a remarkable 1.55 ERA and a 0.90 WHIP across five starts.
His impressive statistics further bolster Phillips’ assessment. In 34 appearances last year, Cantillo recorded a 26.9 percent strikeout rate and a 29.7 percent whiff rate, demonstrating his ability to consistently generate swings and misses.
A Battle for Rotation Spot
While Cantillo’s potential is undeniable, securing a consistent role in the Guardians’ rotation won’t be easy. Cleveland finished the 2025 season employing a six-man rotation, a setup likely to be adjusted before Opening Day, creating competition for available spots.
The first step for Cantillo to realize Phillips’ prediction of becoming a top young arm is to impress during spring training and earn a place among the starting pitchers. The Guardians, and baseball fans alike, will be watching closely to see if this promising left-hander can deliver on his potential.
