The Cleveland Guardians might have little to play for in 2025, but rookie starting pitcher Parker Messick's first major league start offered a promising glimpse into their future.

The Cleveland Guardians need a starting pitcher for Wednesday. They didn't have to need one, but they chose to create the opportunity.

Messick is the Guardians 12th-ranked prospect by MLB Pipeline. The former second-round draft pick from the 2022 MLB Draft, Messick, has spent the last three years in the minor leagues, where he has had a cumulative 3.33 ERA in 354 innings pitched.

The Guardians, in a surprising move, have optioned left-handed starter Joey Cantillo to Triple-A Columbus and recalled left-handed reliever Tim Herrin. Cantillo replaced Luis Ortiz in the starting rotation on July 3 after Ortiz was put on non-disciplinary paid leave because MLB is investigating him for gambling allegations.

Jacob Cozart’s game-tying double and Tyresse Turner’s go-ahead single pushed Akron over Reading in the top of the 9th. It was a game for hitters for both teams, with the Rubber Ducks getting a 3 for 5 from Angel Genao, a 2 for 4 from Cozart, a 2 for 4 including a home run from Joe Lampe and a 3 for 5 from Jonah Advincula.

Now, Cleveland’s No. 12 prospect ( according to MLB Pipeline) is set to make his MLB debut today in the series finale vs. the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field. Messick joins the starting rotation in place of Joey Cantillo, who was optioned to Triple-A Columbus on Sunday.