Three teams that could pursue Johnny Cueto to bolster their rotation

As the 2024 season continues to fly by, teams around the league are evaluating their rosters and identifying areas that need reinforcement for a playoff push. One name that has surfaced as a potential signing target is veteran right-hander Johnny Cueto.

Cueto, 38, opted out of his minor league deal with the Texas Rangers earlier on Tuesday and was released accordingly. He was 2-1 with a 5.71 ERA in ninr starts for the Rangers Triple-A affiliate, Round Rock Express. In 368 career major league games (363 starts), Cueto is 144-111 with a 3.50 ERA.

Known for his crafty pitching style and wealth of experience, Cueto could provide a significant boost to the rotation of a team chasing a playoff spot, presumably on a short-term deal.

Here are three teams that might pursue Johnny Cueto to strengthen their pitching staff:

San Francisco Giants

The Giants are no strangers to Cueto, having seen him excel during his previous stint with the team. Currently in the thick of a heated NL West race, the Giants could use another reliable arm to solidify their rotation.

The Giants have a mix of young talent and seasoned veterans, but adding Cueto would bring stability and experience. His familiarity with the organization and the ballpark would allow for a seamless transition, making him a valuable asset as the Giants chase another postseason berth.

New York Mets

The Mets have had a rollercoaster season, with their rotation struggling to stay healthy and consistent. Bringing in Cueto could provide the stability and reliability they desperately need.

Cueto's ability to navigate through tough lineups and deliver quality starts would be a boon for a Mets team aiming to stay competitive in a tightly contested NL East. Additionally, his veteran presence could help mentor younger pitchers currently on the staff.

Boston Red Sox

The Red Sox find themselves in a highly competitive AL East, where every game counts. Despite pitching already being their strong suit, you can never have enough starting depth while in a pennant race. Cueto’s knack for handling pressure situations and delivering in big games would be an asset in Boston’s push for a playoff spot.

Additionally, Cueto’s varied pitching repertoire and ability to adapt could thrive under the guidance of the Red Sox coaching staff. Bringing him to Fenway Park might just be the spark the Red Sox need to stay in the hunt.