The Cleveland Guardians have had a quiet offseason thus far and are making it clear that they will be counting on internal improvements in 2026 as they make a run for a third consecutive AL Central crown. Luckily, there are plenty of exciting young players on this roster with plenty of room to grow.

The lineup was a major weak area in 2025, as Cleveland had a paltry .226 team batting average. With prospects like George Valera, C.J. Kayfus, and Chase DeLauter potentially in the mix for Opening Day, the offense projects to be better, but there’s another youngster on the pitching staff drawing some buzz as a breakout star.

During a recent appearance on MLB Network Radio, former MLB general manager Steve Phillips stopped by to talk about Guardians lefty Joey Cantillo.

He brought him up as the potential 2026 version of Paul Skenes and believes he could be due for a breakout.

“I really like him. He’s an intriguing guy for me. I’m encouraged to see what he can do this year.”

“Who’s the 2026 version of Paul Skenes?”@StevePhillipsGM on Joey Cantillo’s potential to be a breakout player for 2026. ⚾ #GuardsBall #TheLeadoffSpot

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The 26-year-old spent time in both the rotation and the bullpen last season, but he showed much improvement compared to his debut season in 2024. In 95.1 innings over 34 games, Cantillo sported an impressive 3.21 ERA with 108 strikeouts and just 78 hits given up.

He was arguably Cleveland’s best pitcher down the stretch, going 2-0 with a 1.55 ERA in five September starts. With the team opting not to make any big moves this offseason and Luis Ortiz still gone dealing with the ramifications of his alleged gambling issues, Cantillo should be able to crack the Opening Day starting rotation alongside Gavin Williams, Tanner Bibee, Logan Allen, and Slade Cecconi.

Cantillo was seen as one of Cleveland’s best pitching prospects prior to his promotion to the big leagues, so there’s every reason to believe he has a lot more to give.

He’s a perfect example of a guy who could make this front office look smart by not spending a bunch of money on a free agent starter, because if he can deliver 30 starts with an ERA in the low threes, he could have star written all over him.


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Analyst Predicts Guardians’ 2026 Opening Day Lineup