MLB Rumors: White Sox Close To Bringing In 15-Year Veteran

After a 14-year career in the majors heading into 2022, it appears that it might not yet be the end of the line for 36-year-old right-hander Johnny Cueto. The Chicago White Sox signed Cueto to a minor league deal just days before the start of the season, and thus far, the starter has been living up to his end of the bargain. 

Cueto has been building up his arm strength through two starts with Charlotte at Triple-A, and he's struck out 8 and walked just 2 through 6.2 innings, allowing 6 hits and 3 runs. He has another start there this week, but listening to White Sox manager Tony La Russa, that could be his last tune-up before a call-up to The Show. 

Sounds like the Johnny Cueto show is getting closer to showing up on the S Side of Chicago. He has his third Triple-A start coming up this week:

Tony La Russa: "We're looking for his help sooner than later. Its been impressive so far. He can help us."

— Jesse Rogers (@JesseRogersESPN) May 2, 2022

ESPN Chicago baseball insider Jesse Rogers reports that La Russa seems itching for Cueto to get the call. "We're looking for his help sooner than later. Its been impressive so far. He can help us."

La Russa's comment is likely an indictment on Dallas Keuchel.

The White Sox rotation has been getting by reasonably well without ace Lance Lynn to this point, at least for its top three of Lucas Giolito, Dylan Cease and Michael Kopech. After that, Vince Velasquez has been up-and-down, while  Keuchel has been all down, with an 8.40 ERA and a 2.33 WHIP. 

Cueto has a career ERA of 3.45 in the majors, though he's struggled through injuries and poor performance the past few years in San Francisco. Seems like La Russa is willing to bet on a return to the Cueto of old. 

Photo Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports