MLB Rumors: White Sox Call Up 14-Year Veteran Starter

It was two weeks ago that Chicago White Sox manager Tony La Russa told us all that newly-signed pitcher Johnny Cueto would be arriving soon. "We're looking for his help sooner than later. Its been impressive so far. He can help us," he said back then. Not sure if two weeks qualifies as "sooner than later", but here he is: Cueto has finally been recalled from Triple-A and is slated to start Tuesday night.

Prior to tonight’s series opener at Kansas City, the Chicago White Sox purchased the contract of two-time All-Star right-handed pitcher Johnny Cueto from Class AAA Charlotte and optioned infielder Danny Mendick to Charlotte.

— Chicago White Sox (@whitesox) May 16, 2022

The 36-year-old will begin his 15th season in the majors with the White Sox, facing the Kansas City Royals—the team that he helped to a World Series title in 2015. 

The ChiSox become Cueto's 4th major league team, having spent the past six years with the San Francisco Giants, and his first eight seasons in the bigs with the Cincinnati Reds. 

Thus far, he's compiled an impressive career ERA of 3.45 along with a 1.20 WHIP and 135 victories. 

The White Sox signed him to a minor league contract in April, and in 4 games started for Triple-A Charlotte, Cueto had a 17:4 K:BB ratio in 15.2 innings, though with a slightly inflated 5.17 ERA.

Photo Credit: Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports