Everyone at Clemson knew Cam Cannarella was a star — they had front row seats to the show for three straight seasons. Now, the 21-year-old is performing on a bigger stage, and he’s making the most of it.
In July, the Miami Marlins selected Cannarella with the 43rd overall pick in the Competitive Balance Round A of the 2025 MLB draft.
He’s already begun to flourish.
Just 15 days after being drafted, Cannarella received the payday of a lifetime and signed with Miami for $2.2 million, officially closing the chapter on his Clemson career.
He spent just eight days in the Florida Complex League before earning a promotion to the Marlins’ High-A affiliate, the Beloit Sky Carp, on Aug. 12. High-A is a crucial step for young talent developing into an MLB-caliber player, and Cannarella’s quick jump is a promising sight.
Batting leadoff for Beloit, Cannarella has already produced strong numbers, with a .284 batting average, .337 OBP and .712 OPS through 20 games. Among his six doubles are two from his pro debut — one of them an opposite-field shot.
Of course, Cannarella’s glove is his shining asset. Whether it’s his home run robberies, full extension dives or his signature over-the-shoulder Willie Mays grabs — like the one he made during the 2024 Super Regionals against Florida — his defense separates him from the pack.
In just his third game with Beloit, Cannarella reminded people in Miami what Clemson fans already knew, pulling off another over-the-shoulder catch while sprinting straight backwards — a play that made waves across the minor leagues.
Miami’s farm system now ranks 13th in the league — a three-spot jump from their preseason rank of 16th, according to MLB.com.
And Cannarella? He’s already the No. 7 prospect in the system.
His estimated arrival to the show is currently set for 2028, but don’t be surprised if you see him patrolling center field at LoanDepot Park even sooner.