The Guardians have shuffled their pitching staff, optioning left-handed starter Joey Cantillo to Triple-A Columbus and recalling left-handed reliever Tim Herrin.
Cantillo had been in Cleveland’s rotation since July 3, stepping in for Luis Ortiz after Ortiz was placed on non-disciplinary paid leave while MLB investigates gambling allegations against him. Cantillo initially broke in with the bullpen this season before moving to Columbus in late May to develop as a starter, a move the organization has used to deepen its rotation depth.
Herrin, a left-handed reliever, joins the Guardians from Columbus as the roster moves give Cleveland additional bullpen depth while Ortiz’s status remains in question.
The move reflects the Guardians’ broader strategy of balancing development with immediate needs, particularly with Ortiz out of action amid the MLB investigation. Cantillo’s return to Columbus to work as a starter keeps him in a role that could quickly translate to Major League innings if needed. If Ortiz’s situation is resolved, Cantillo could be a candidate to rejoin the rotation or fill a flexible innings role.
Summary: The Guardians are maintaining pitching depth by sending Cantillo to Columbus and bringing up Herrin, keeping options open in Cleveland as Ortiz’s status remains unresolved.
Positive note: The organization’s willingness to adapt—shifting Cantillo back to the minors for starting work while reinforcing the bullpen with Herrin—shows a proactive approach to roster management and player development.
If you’d like, I can add a brief explainer of what these kinds of roster moves typically mean for a team’s midseason strategy or provide a quick player profile for Cantillo and Herrin.