Guardians Cut Ties with Injured Starter Cal Quantrill
The Cleveland Guardians have designated right-handers Cal Quantrill and Michael Kelly for assignment in order to protect Cade Smith and Daniel Espino from the Rule 5 Draft. Quantrill, a veteran pitcher, struggled in the 2023 season and will be designated for assignment rather than receive a raise in arbitration. The Guardians have a strong rotation without Quantrill, thanks to their pitching development and the emergence of top prospects. Quantrill has a week to be traded or pass through waivers, and any team that claims him could control him for two more years via arbitration. Kelly, a journeyman pitcher, will also be traded or potentially passed through waivers. Espino, a highly regarded prospect, missed the entire season due to injury, while Smith, a bullpen arm, has a chance to earn his first big league opportunity.