Bulpen development is the latest path for turning high-end arms into frontline talents. Cantillo’s rise with Cleveland illustrates how a relief role can sharpen a pitcher’s aggressiveness, pitch sequencing, and two-way readiness. The trend is reinforced by Detmers, Casparius, and others who found a clearer, attack-first mindset when trust in the next inning isn’t guaranteed.

Cantillo’s toolkit—an elite extension-fastball, a game-changing changeup, and a curve gaining usage—has transformed him from bullpen weapon to rotation-worthy asset. His approach—attack first, minimize wasted pitches, and mix aggressively—has translated to better zone control and more consistent results as a starter, even as his velocity work-in-progress remains the focal point for fantasy managers.

With a slate of October-hopeful starts looming for Cleveland, fantasy players should monitor Cantillo’s continued shift in mindset and pitch usage. The Guardians’ plan to leverage bullpen-born aggressiveness could yield steady outings and boost the team’s playoff odds, making Cantillo a compelling rest-of-season target in some formats.