Joey Cantillo DVOA, Advanced Stats, & Fantasy Rankings

Cleveland Guardians left-handed pitching prospect Joey Cantillo will open the season in the bullpen. Cantillo was competing for a spot in the rotation but will instead begin his 2025 season pitching out of the bullpen. During spring training, Cantillo held a high 7.82 ERA with a 1.89 WHIP across 12 2/3 innings of work. During this stint, he tallied 18 punchouts but served up nine free passes. Last summer, Cantillo made his MLB debut, appeared in nine games, and started eight of them. Across 38 2/3 innings, the southpaw held a 4.89 ERA with a 1.29 WHIP. He posted a 15:44 BB:K while generating a strong .224 xBA. At the Triple-A level last season, Cantillo posted a 3.29 ERA with a 1.54 WHIP. Fantasy managers should monitor his progression in the bullpen as he could return to the rotation if he performs well.

Cleveland Guardians pitching prospect Joey Cantillo tossed two shutout frames during his start on Monday afternoon against the Arizona Diamondbacks. Cantillo allowed a leadoff single to Arizona's Ketel Marte but kept the bases empty after that. He tallied three punchouts and did not serve up a free pass. The 25-year-old is currently competing for a spot in the starting rotation. Last season, Cantillo made his MLB debut. He tossed 38 2/3 innings, pitching primarily in the rotation. He tallied 44 punchouts and held a 4.89 ERA and a 1.29 WHIP. He generated a strong .224 xBA and a 3.83 xERA. However, the former 16th-round pick will need to show stronger command of his pitches, as his 9.2 percent walk rate was below the average marks. He is competing alongside Triston McKenzie and Jakob Junis for the final spot in the rotation. He could have value in deeper formats if he earns the spot.

Cleveland Guardians starting pitcher Joey Cantillo turned in the best start of his young career in Monday's 5-3 win over the White Sox. Cantillo, who was recalled from Triple-A Columbus ahead of the start, pitched seven innings, allowing one run on two hits and no walks with 10 strikeouts, earning his first career win. The 24-year-old prospect has made six appearances (five starts) with the Guardians and owns a bloated 5.96 ERA in 25 2/3 IP. He has pitched better at Triple-A, but it does not seem he necessarily has a clear path to playing time down the stretch in the big leagues. It is possible he could make a few more spot starts, but he seems to be a more relevant player in dynasty or keeper fantasy leagues at this time.