Rangers Sign Veteran Pitcher Johnny Cueto to Minor League Deal Amid Rotation Injuries

The Texas Rangers have signed veteran starting pitcher Johnny Cueto to a minor league contract amid a rash of injuries to their pitching staff. Cueto, a 38-year-old right-hander, will report to the Rangers' complex in Surprise, Arizona.

Cueto spent the 2023 season with the Miami Marlins, where he struggled with a 1-4 record and a 6.02 ERA in 52.1 innings pitched. However, he had a strong 2022 campaign with the Chicago White Sox, posting a 3.35 ERA over 158.1 innings.

The Rangers' rotation has been hit hard by injuries, with Max Scherzer, Jacob deGrom, Tyler Mahle, and Cody Bradford all currently on the injured list. While Cueto is not expected to be an immediate solution, the Rangers see him as additional depth to help weather any future absences or injuries in the rotation.

Why this matters: The Rangers, currently leading the AL West with a 12-11 record, are looking to bolster their pitching staff to maintain their position and make a strong playoff push. Cueto's veteran presence and postseason experience could prove valuable if he can regain his form.

Rangers manager Bruce Bochy, who managed Cueto during his time with the San Francisco Giants, expressed optimism about the signing. "Johnny is a proven winner and a great teammate," Bochy said. "We're excited to have him join our organization and provide some depth to our rotation."

The team is hopeful that Cody Bradford will return soon and that Scherzer will begin a rehab assignment, which could make Cueto's addition more of a long-term insurance policy than an immediate fix. General manager Chris Young, who was Cueto's teammate on the 2015 Kansas City Royals, believes the veteran's presence will be beneficial both on and off the field.

Cueto has a decorated 16-year MLB career, which includes two All-Star selections and a World Series championship with the Royals in 2015. He has a career record of 144-111 with a 3.50 ERA in 368 appearances (363 starts) and ranks among the active leaders in several pitching categories, including complete games, innings pitched, and strikeouts.

Key Takeaways

• Texas Rangers sign veteran pitcher Johnny Cueto to a minor league contract.
• Cueto struggled in 2023 with Marlins but had a strong 2022 season with White Sox.
• Rangers' rotation hit by injuries, see Cueto as depth to weather future absences.
• Cueto is a 2-time All-Star with a World Series championship and 16-year MLB career.
• Rangers hope Cueto's veteran presence and experience will benefit the team.