Angels Sign All-Star & 3-Time Cy-Young Finalist

The Los Angeles Angels have bolstered their pitching staff by signing All-Star and three-time Cy Young finalist Johnny Cueto to a minor-league contract, as reported by Jon Heyman of the New York Post. 

Cueto, a 16-season MLB veteran, brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record to the Angels. 

Despite facing multiple injuries and recent struggles, the Angels see potential in Cueto's seasoned arm and are giving him a chance to make a comeback.

Johnny Cueto agrees to Angels minors deal

— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) July 21, 2024

Cueto, known for his dominant period with the Cincinnati Reds from 2010 to 2016, posted a stellar 2.86 ERA during that span, second only to Clayton Kershaw among qualified starters. 

His career highlights include a World Series championship with the Kansas City Royals in 2015. Most recently, Cueto pitched for the Texas Rangers' Triple-A affiliate, Round Rock, where he recorded a 5.92 ERA and 30 strikeouts over eight starts before opting out of his contract earlier this month.

Johnny Cueto is headed to the Angels on a minor-league deal pic.twitter.com/iCPD4YROMX

— Talkin’ Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) July 21, 2024

The Angels' strategy of taking chances on veteran players has had mixed results this season, but they hope Cueto can bring some stability to their pitching staff. 

With the current rotation headlined by Tyler Anderson and Griffin Canning, both subjects of trade speculation, Cueto has a viable path to the big leagues. 

Over his 16-year career, the 38-year-old holds a 3.50 ERA, 1.21 WHIP, with 1,851 strikeouts across 2,245 innings and 368 appearances.

Photo Credit:  Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports