Veteran pitcher Johnny Cueto joins Marlins with a $17.5 million deal

The Miami Marlins have signed right-handed pitcher Johnny Cueto to a two-year contract worth up to $17.5 million. The 36-year-old is guaranteed $8.5 million, with a $6 million salary in 2023 and a $10.5 million team option for 2024 with a $2.5 million buyout.

Johnny Cueto will also have the opportunity to earn performance bonuses of up to $250,000 per season. These include $50,000 for 25 starts, $75,000 for 28 starts, and $125,000 for 32 starts. Additionally, he can earn $50,000 for 50 relief appearances, $75,000 for 55 appearances, and $125,000 for 60 appearances. As a perk, Cueto will also receive a hotel suite on road trips.

The veteran pitcher joins a rotation that includes National League Cy Young Award winner Sandy Alcantara, Pablo López, Trevor Rogers, Edward Cabrera, Braxton Garrett, and Jesús Luzardo. Cueto had a strong season with the Chicago White Sox in 2020, posting an 8-10 record with a 3.35 ERA in 24 starts and one relief appearance.

Cueto is a two-time All-Star, earning the honor in 2014 with Cincinnati and 2016 with San Francisco. He also won a World Series with the Kansas City Royals in 2015. Born in San Pedro de Macoris, Cueto has a career ERA of 3.44, which is the third-lowest among Dominican pitchers behind Juan Marichal (2.89) and Pedro Martinez (2.93).

With his impressive track record and strong performance, Cueto is a valuable addition to the Marlins’ pitching staff. The team will look to him to provide veteran leadership and stability in the rotation as they work to improve their standing in the National League.

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