Rangers Sign Seasoned Starter to Minor League Deal

Rangers Sign Johnny Cueto to Minor League Deal

Signing Cueto adds plenty of talent and experience for the defending World Series champions. Cueto is no stranger to the Fall Classic himself, having helped the Kansas City Royals to the 2015 title. Before that, though, he began his career with the Cincinnati Reds, with whom he put up his best numbers. Across eight seasons in Cincy, Cueto compiled a record of 92-63 with a 3.21 ERA, a 1.165 WHIP, and 1,115 strikeouts.

When the Royals acquired him at the 2015 deadline, it paid off handsomely, but they did not re-sign him in free agency. Cueto went to the San Francisco Giants, signing for six years and $130 million. He continued putting up mostly strong numbers by the bay, although he hit a snag when he underwent Tommy John surgery in 2018. Cueto stayed with the Giants through the 2021 season. He then spent 2022 with the Chicago White Sox and last season with the Miami Marlins. According to MLB Network’s Jon Morosi, Cueto’s experience playing under Bruce Bochy in San Francisco likely figured into his decision to sign with Texas.

Once the Rangers’ rotation is back to full strength, they will have an impressive array of veterans to roll out. Cueto and Scherzer will join Nathan Eovaldi, who played an important role in last year’s title. Also coming back eventually will be Jacob deGrom, hoping to make a strong impression in Texas after missing most of last season.