Kailua’s Joey Cantillo makes MLB debut

Kailua alumnus Joey Cantillo officially made his MLB debut on Sunday, making the start for the Cleveland Guardians in a 4-3 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies, although Cantillo had a no decision.

In a matchup between the top team in the American League standings and the top team in the National League, Cantillo allowed three runs, four hits and three walks with three strikeouts.

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Cantillo gave up a pair of home runs to Philadelphia leadoff hitter Kyle Schwarber but also registered his first career strikeout against Bryce Harper, one of baseball’s biggest stars.

Cantillo was relieved in the fourth inning by former University of Hawaii pitcher Cade Smith, who officially closed the book on Cantillo’s day with consecutive strikeouts.

Tim Herrin earned the win in relief for Cleveland after recording the final out of the sixth inning. The Guardians scored in the seventh inning and never relinquished their 4-3 lead.