Johnny Cueto delivers a powerful pitch during a game, showcasing his signature windup and competitive spirit. © Twitter (@JohnnyCueto)
Johnny Cueto is a seasoned professional baseball pitcher known for his unique delivery and tricky pitching style. With a career spanning multiple teams and various accomplishments, Cueto has become a Major League Baseball (MLB) household name. This article will explore Johnny Cueto’s height, age, career achievements, rookie card value, and 2024 contract situation.
Johnny Cueto Profile
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Johnny Cueto |
| Date of Birth | February 15, 1986 |
| Age | 37 years |
| Height | 6 feet 1 inch (185 cm) |
| Weight | 230 lbs (104 kg) |
| Bats | Right |
| Throws | Right |
| Position | Pitcher |
| MLB Debut | April 3, 2008 |
| Teams Played For | Cincinnati Reds, Kansas City Royals, Chicago White Sox, San Francisco Giants |
| Career Win-Loss Record | 143 wins – 113 losses |
| Earned Run Average (ERA) | 3.40 |
| Strikeouts | Over 1,800 |
| Notable Achievements | 2× All-Star, 2015 World Series Champion |
| Rookie Card | 2009 Topps Update Johnny Cueto RC |
Johnny Cueto’s journey to the MLB began in the Dominican Republic, where he was discovered for his pitching talent. His career has been marked by resilience and excellence, with several highlights. Below, we explore the key milestones and statistics that define his professional career.
Johnny Cueto Height and Age
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | 6 feet 1 inch (185 cm) |
| Age | 37 years (Born February 15, 1986) |
Johnny Cueto is 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm) tall. He may not have the towering presence of some of his contemporaries, but he more than makes up for it with his pitching skills and agility. His height gives him a compact frame, allowing for a delivery that confounds batters with varying tempos and deceptive movements.
As of 2024, Cueto is 38 years old. He was carried on February 15, 1986, in San Pedro de Macorís, Dominican Republic. Despite approaching the age at which many pitchers start considering retirement, Cueto defies the odds with his tenacity on the mound and ability to adapt his game.
Johnny Cueto Early Years and MLB Debut
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Johnny Cueto |
| Date of Birth | February 15, 1986 |
| Birthplace | San Pedro de Macorís, Dominican Republic |
| Family Background | Youngest of 8 children; family played a significant role in his early love for baseball |
| Little League Team | San Pedro de Macorís Little League |
| High School | Attended the Dominican Republic’s San Pedro High School |
| First Professional Team | Cincinnati Reds (signed in 2004) |
| Minor League Debut | 2006 with the Billings Mustangs (Rookie Level) |
| MLB Debut | April 3, 2008 |
| Debut Team | Cincinnati Reds |
| Debut Opponent | Arizona Diamondbacks |
| Debut Performance | 6 innings pitched, 4 runs allowed, 6 strikeouts |
| Notable Early Achievement | 2008: Became the first Dominican-born player to debut for the Reds |
Cueto was signed by the Cincinnati Reds as an international free agent in 2004, beginning his journey in the minor leagues. After working his way through the ranks, he made his MLB debut with the Reds on April 3, 2008. In his debut game, he made an immediate impact, striking out 10 batters over seven innings, signaling the arrival of a new pitching talent in the league.
Johnny Cueto Breakout Season and Consistency
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Breakout Season | 2012 |
| Team | Cincinnati Reds |
| Games Played | 33 |
| Innings Pitched | 217.0 |
| Win-Loss Record | 19-9 |
| Earned Run Average (ERA) | 2.78 |
| Strikeouts | 213 |
| Walks | 65 |
| WHIP (Walks + Hits per Inning) | 1.17 |
| All-Star Selection | 2012 |
| Awards | 2012 NL Gold Glove Award |
| Consistency | 200+ innings pitched in 6 seasons (2011-2016) |
| Postseason Appearances | 3 (2010, 2012, 2016) |
| Playoff Performance | Notable for strong outings in the 2012 postseason, helping the Reds to the playoffs |
| Pitching Style | Known for a diverse pitch repertoire, including a fastball, changeup, and slider |
Cueto established himself as an elite pitcher during the 2011 and 2012 seasons. In 2012, he achieved a career-high 19 wins with a 2.78 ERA and finished fourth in the National League Cy Young Award voting. His consistently delivering quality starts made him one of the most reliable pitchers in the league.
Johnny Cueto World Series with the Kansas City Royals
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Year | 2015 |
| Team | Kansas City Royals |
| World Series Opponent | New York Mets |
| Games Played | 2 |
| Innings Pitched | 13.1 |
| Win-Loss Record | 1-0 |
| Earned Run Average (ERA) | 2.03 |
| Strikeouts | 8 |
| Walks | 1 |
| WHIP (Walks + Hits per Inning) | 0.83 |
| Game 1 Performance | 6.0 innings, 2 runs, 4 hits, 6 strikeouts |
| Game 2 Performance | 7.1 innings, 0 runs, 2 hits, 2 strikeouts |
| World Series Outcome | Kansas City Royals won the World Series (4-1) |
| Notable Achievements | Earned the win in Game 2; pivotal in Royals’ championship victory |
| Playoff Performance | Cueto was instrumental throughout the playoffs, showcasing dominance on the mound |
In 2015, Johnny Cueto was traded to the Kansas City Royals, where he would play a significant role in their World Series Championship run. Cueto delivered a memorable performance in Game 2 of the World Series, pitching a complete game, allowing just two hits and one run, securing a pivotal victory for the Royals. His contribution was instrumental in helping the team win their foremost World Series title in 30 years.
Johnny Cueto Stint with the San Francisco Giants
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Tenure | 2016 – 2021 |
| Contract Details | Signed a six-year, $130 million contract in December 2015 |
| Debut Season | 2016 |
| Total Games Played | 105 (Regular Season) |
| Innings Pitched | 608.0 |
| Win-Loss Record | 38-28 |
| Earned Run Average (ERA) | 3.36 |
| Strikeouts | 568 |
| Walks | 143 |
| Complete Games | 2 |
| All-Star Appearances | 2016 (1st selection as a Giant) |
| Notable Achievements | Led the team in strikeouts in 2016; helped Giants reach the playoffs in 2016 |
| Postseason Performance | 2016 NL Wild Card Game: 4.0 innings, 0 runs, 4 strikeouts |
| Injury Challenges | Suffered from injuries, including a torn UCL that limited him to 4 games in 2017 |
| Departure | Became a free agent after the 2021 season |
Cueto signed a lucrative six-year, $130 million contract with the San Francisco Giants during the 2016 season, marking the next chapter in his career. He had an impressive debut season with the Giants, recording 18 wins, a 2.79 ERA, and earning his second All-Star selection. Unfortunately, injuries would hamper the latter part of his time in San Francisco, but his moments of brilliance continued to shine through.
Johnny Cueto Return to Form and Recent Performance
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Return Year | 2022 |
| Team | Chicago White Sox |
| Games Played | 24 (Regular Season) |
| Innings Pitched | 158.0 |
| Win-Loss Record | 8-10 |
| Earned Run Average (ERA) | 3.35 |
| Strikeouts | 125 |
| Walks | 47 |
| Complete Games | 1 |
| Notable Performance | 2022: Strong start with several quality starts |
| 2023 Season Performance | 14 starts for the Miami Marlins |
| 2023 Win-Loss Record | 4-5 |
| 2023 ERA | 6.35 |
| Recent Challenges | Faced difficulties with consistency and injuries in 2023 |
| Career Highlights | 2-time All-Star; Known for his postseason performance |
In 2022, Cueto found a resurgence in his career with the Chicago White Sox, where he was brought in on a minor league deal. Despite the modest terms of the contract, he quickly proved his value, showcasing his trademark tenacity and adaptability on the mound. His ability to continue performing at a high level well into his late 30s is a testament to his work ethic and understanding of the game.
Johnny Cueto Career Stats
| Statistical Category | Career Totals |
|---|---|
| Games Played | 400 |
| Innings Pitched | 2,677.2 |
| Win-Loss Record | 145-103 |
| Earned Run Average (ERA) | 3.38 |
| Strikeouts | 2,284 |
| Walks | 940 |
| Complete Games | 14 |
| Shutouts | 5 |
| Saves | 0 |
| WHIP (Walks + Hits/Innings Pitched) | 1.22 |
| Opponent Batting Average | .243 |
| Postseason Appearances | 11 |
| Postseason ERA | 3.67 |
| Postseason Strikeouts | 89 |
Over his lengthy career in MLB, Johnny Cueto has built an impressive statistical profile that includes:
- Wins: Over 140 career wins.
- ERA: A career ERA of around 3.50, demonstrating his effectiveness over the years.
- Strikeouts: More than 1,800 career strikeouts, showing his ability to dominate batters.
- Complete Games: Known for his durability, Cueto has pitched multiple complete games throughout his career.
- All-Star Appearances: Two All-Star selections (2014, 2016), highlighting his recognition as one of the top pitchers in the league during those seasons.
His numbers reflect his talent and ability to adapt and remain effective even as the league evolved and became more competitive.
Johnny Cueto Rookie Card
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Player Name | Johnny Cueto |
| Rookie Card Year | 2009 |
| Card Manufacturer | Topps |
| Card Set Name | Topps Update Series |
| Card Number | #UH-107 |
| Card Design | Standard Topps design featuring a full-color action shot |
| Card Condition | Mint (or as graded) |
| Market Value | Varies by condition; typically ranges from $5 to $50 |
| Notable Features | Often sought after by collectors for being Cueto’s first official card |
| Autographed Version | Available, often valued higher |
Johnny Cueto’s rookie card is a prized possession for baseball card collectors. His rookie cards date back to 2008, his MLB debut. Among the various versions, some of the most popular include:
- 2008 Topps Chrome Rookie Card: Known for its sleek design and reflective surface, this card remains a favorite.
- 2008 Bowman Chrome Rookie Card: Often sought after by collectors for its quality and the potential for increased value.
- 2008 Upper Deck Rookie Card: Another notable option that provides a classic baseball card feel.
The value of Cueto’s rookie cards can vary significantly depending on factors such as condition, grading, and rarity. Cards in mint condition or those that have been professionally graded tend to fetch higher prices on the market.
Johnny Cueto Contract Situation in 2024
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Team | Miami Marlins |
| Contract Type | Minor League Contract |
| Contract Duration | Signed in 2024, duration TBD |
| Base Salary | $1 million (if in the Major League) |
| Performance Bonuses | Possible incentives based on performance |
| Previous Contract | 1-year contract with Chicago White Sox (2023) |
| Free Agency Status | Will be a free agent after the 2024 season |
| Injury Considerations | Limited to minor league action due to injury |
| Negotiation Plans | TBD based on performance and health |
As of 2024, Johnny Cueto is in the latter stages of his career, and his contract status has been a topic of interest. After showcasing his continued abilities with the Chicago White Sox and Miami Marlins in previous seasons, Cueto has been seen as a valuable veteran presence, capable of bolstering the rotation of teams looking for experienced pitching depth.
What to Expect From Johnny Cueto in 2024
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Expected Role | Starting pitcher (if performance warrants) |
| Projected Performance | Potential for mid-rotation starter if healthy |
| Injury History | Previous injuries may limit innings pitched |
| Pitching Style | Mix of fastball, changeup, and slider |
| Velocity | Slightly lower than peak years, around 90-92 mph |
| Strengths | Experience, poise on the mound, and pitch variety |
| Areas for Improvement | Consistency, especially in command |
| Coaching Influence | Potential guidance from Marlins’ coaching staff |
| Impact on Team | Veteran presence, mentor for younger pitchers |
| Contract Motivations | Aiming for a solid season to secure a new contract |
Cueto’s experience and pitching acumen make him a suitable candidate for teams that require a stable and reliable option at the back end of their rotation. Despite being 38 years old, his crafty pitching style has allowed him to remain effective, even as his velocity has diminished with age. Teams will likely value his leadership qualities and ability to mentor younger pitchers.
There is speculation that Cueto could be signed to a one-year deal with incentives based on performance as teams look to maximize his veteran experience without committing to long-term contracts.
Johnny Cueto Signature Pitching Style
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Primary Pitch | Fastball (four-seam and two-seam) |
| Velocity | Typically ranges from 90-92 mph |
| Secondary Pitches | Changeup, Slider, Curveball |
| Changeup | Effective with deceptive speed; used to disrupt timing |
| Slider | Sharp break, particularly effective against right-handed batters |
| Curveball | Used occasionally, adds a vertical element to arsenal |
| Delivery Style | Unique windup; incorporates pauses and a high leg kick |
| Arm Angle | Low three-quarters arm slot, contributing to pitch movement |
| Pitch Movement | Excellent horizontal and vertical movement; especially on fastballs and sliders |
| Strategic Approach | Mixes pitches effectively, keeps hitters guessing |
| Clutch Performance | Known for rising to the occasion in high-pressure situations |
Johnny Cueto is known for his unique and effective pitching style, which includes multiple delivery tempos and a deceptive windup that keeps hitters off balance. His approach often involves varying his motion to disrupt the timing of the batter, a technique that has served him well throughout his career.
Mastery of Multiple Pitches
Cueto’s pitch repertoire includes a fastball, slider, changeup, and cutter, which he uses to keep hitters guessing. His command over these pitches has been a critical factor in his longevity in the league, allowing him to adapt his strategy based on the strengths and weaknesses of opposing lineups.
Johnny Cueto Social Media
| Platform | Link |
|---|---|
| @JohnnyCueto | |
| @JohnnyCueto | |
| Johnny Cueto |
Johnny Cueto’s career has been nothing short of remarkable. With a pitching style that is uniquely his own, he has maintained a high level of performance across multiple teams and stages of his career. Standing 5 feet 11 inches tall and at 38 years old, Cueto continues to embody the spirit of resilience in MLB, with 2024 promising another chapter in his storied career. From his rookie card collectibles to his impactful role on championship teams, Cueto remains a fascinating figure in baseball.
