Hawaii-Connected Players Shine Early in MLB Season

Local talents make major league rosters and contribute to their teams' success

Mar. 30, 2026 at 10:05am

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A fractured, geometric painting depicting various baseball actions and movements, with bright colors and sharp, overlapping shapes representing the dynamic nature of the sport.The vibrant energy of Hawaii's baseball talent shines through in a cubist interpretation of the early MLB season.Kailua Today

As the 2026 MLB season gets underway, several Hawaii-connected players have made the cut for major league rosters, including Isiah Kiner-Falefa with the Boston Red Sox, Kirby Yates with the Los Angeles Angels, and Cade Smith with the Cleveland Guardians. Additionally, Joey Cantillo and Rico Garcia have also earned spots on their respective teams' pitching staffs. The article also highlights the historic hiring of Kurt Suzuki as the first MLB manager born and raised in Hawaii, as he takes the helm of the Angels. Overall, it's an exciting time for Hawaii baseball fans to see local talent thriving at the highest level.

Why it matters

The success of Hawaii-born and -raised players in Major League Baseball is a source of pride for the local community. It showcases the talent and dedication of these athletes, and demonstrates that players from Hawaii can compete and excel at the highest levels of the sport. The hiring of Kurt Suzuki as the Angels' manager is also a significant milestone, as he becomes the first Hawaii-born and -raised individual to manage an MLB team.

The details

Several Hawaii-connected players have made major league rosters to start the 2026 season. Isiah Kiner-Falefa, a Mid-Pacific graduate, signed with the Boston Red Sox in the offseason and started at second base on Opening Day. Kirby Yates, a relief pitcher from Kauai, joined the Los Angeles Angels but is currently on the injured list. Cade Smith, a University of Hawaii alum, made the Cleveland Guardians' roster as their closer. Additionally, Joey Cantillo (Kailua) earned a spot in the Guardians' starting rotation, while Rico Garcia (Saint Louis, Hawaii Pacific) made the Baltimore Orioles' bullpen. Former UH standout Josh Rojas just missed making the Kansas City Royals' roster but is off to a hot start at Triple-A Omaha.

  • On March 30, 2026, the 2026 MLB season began.
  • On Opening Day, Isiah Kiner-Falefa started at second base for the Boston Red Sox.
  • On Thursday, March 30, the Los Angeles Angels defeated the Houston Astros 3-0 on Opening Day, with Kurt Suzuki notching his first win as an MLB manager.
  • On Saturday, April 1, Joey Cantillo made his first start of the 2026 season for the Cleveland Guardians, lasting 3 2/3 innings.
  • On Sunday, April 2, Rico Garcia pitched for the Baltimore Orioles, recording his first major league win since 2020.

The players

Isiah Kiner-Falefa

A Mid-Pacific graduate who signed with the Boston Red Sox in the offseason and started at second base on Opening Day.

Kirby Yates

A relief pitcher from Kauai who joined the Los Angeles Angels but is currently on the injured list.

Cade Smith

A University of Hawaii alum who made the Cleveland Guardians' roster as their closer.

Joey Cantillo

A pitcher from Kailua who earned a spot in the Cleveland Guardians' starting rotation.

Rico Garcia

A Saint Louis and Hawaii Pacific alumnus who made the Baltimore Orioles' bullpen.

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What they’re saying

“Nothing too concerning. We're just playing it cautious, make sure that he's right. We don't want to rush him into the season and lose him for two months instead of taking care of it now for a little IL stint.”

— Kurt Suzuki, Los Angeles Angels Manager

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.