The New York Yankees are in deep trouble after Gerrit Cole sustained a right elbow injury. They depend on the ace pitcher so much. Last year, when the whole team failed to perform at their best, Cole had a career-best season, earning him a Cy Young title. It was his first, but Cole said that he never dreamt of winning the Cy Young Award. On the other hand, Cole always wanted to win the World Series. He had been to the World Series once in his career. But he is yet to win it. All he wants to do is win the “Big Dance” with the New York Yankees. And that’s exactly what the Yankees Faithful wants, too.
But very early in the spring training, the American League reigning Cy Young winner hurt his elbow. It scared the fans and the whole organization. After all, Cole is the pillar of the Yankees’ pitching department. Without their ace pitcher, the Bronx Bombers look pretty weak in their defense. As a result, the NY side is in search of a reliable starting pitcher. They missed out on landing several quality starters like Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Blake Snell throughout the offseason. Lately, the 27-time champions are eyeing one two-time All-Star starter.
Johnny Cueto Is A Viable Trade Target For The Yankees
The Yankees missed out on the two-time Cy Young winner Blake Snell to the San Francisco Giants because of the high price. However, fans were eager to see the two reigning Cy Young winners donning the same uniform this year. But it was just not meant to be. Anyway, at present, the NY side is looking for another starting pitcher to bolster the specific area in the absence of Gerrit Cole. Due to luxury payroll tax issues, the Yankees can’t afford an expensive deal like Jordan Montgomery is looking for. They are looking for cheaper buy. If they sign a large deal, they will have to pay a large tax. Lately, Darragh McDonald of MLB Trade Rumors said Johnny Cueto, a two-time All-Star pitcher can be a viable option for the Yankees.
Next Thursday will be the Opening Day. However, due to a slow offseason, the Yankees still have options with several unsigned hurlers. McDonald also talked about pitchers like Jordan Montgomery and Michael Lorenzen, who are still unsigned. But then there are pitchers like Johnny Cueto, Mike Clevinger, and Noah Syndergaard, who are available in free agency too. Previously this month, reports said Jordan Montgomery has been looking for a seven-year deal. But McDonald believes other free agents won’t need a big deal to sign.
Why Cueto Is Perfect For The Pinstripes?
The two-time All-Star is 38 years old. Hence, the Yankees can afford him with their specific budget. Moreover, age is not the be-all and end-all. Johnny Cueto can still be a solid pickup for the Bronx Bombers. Last year, Johnny was with the Miami Marlins. He did not have a great season to remember. In 13 appearances, Cueto posted a 6.02 ERA.
However, in 2022, Johnny was with the Chicago White Sox. He made 25 appearances that year. Cueto posted a 3.35 ERA in 2022. That’s what the Yankees need right now. They need Cueto to get back to his 2022 form, which will be a huge boost for their rotation.
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