The Texas Rangers are taking a chance on a former two-time All-Star pitcher by signing Johnny Cueto to a minor-league contract on Tuesday. Cueto’s decision to join the Rangers seems to stem from his belief that the defending World Series champions are contenders, as well as his connection with the team’s manager, Bruce Bochy.
Cueto had a six-year stint with the Giants from 2016 to 2021, during which Bochy managed the team for the first four seasons. He had notable seasons, winning 19 games in 2012, 20 games in 2014, and 18 games in 2016. His most recent successful season was with the White Sox in 2022, where he posted an 8-10 record with a 3.35 ERA. However, in his last season with the Marlins, he struggled, going 1-4 with a 6.02 ERA over 13 games.
Despite Cueto’s signing, the Rangers entered Tuesday’s game with a 12-11 record, placing them first in the AL West division.