Mark J. Rebilas-US PRESSWIRE
In a season in which the term “shut down” has been used more often than probably every other season put together, there are MLB Rumors starting that the Cincinnati Reds may be poised to shut down Johnny Cueto, if for only one start, before the season is out.
Much like the Reds did with Aroldis Chapman, the MLB rumors have Dusty Baker considering giving Cueto a start off to regain his form and control and recharge his batteries.
I cannot say that I blame Baker for making the move. At one time, Cueto was the front runner for the Cy Young Award and talks of giving him time off were out of the question. However, given his recent performances, a missed start could be just what the doctor ordered.
In his last three starts Cueto has lasted into the 7th once, didn’t make it past the 4th twice. He gave up 4, 4, and 6 runs respectively during those three games. He is 0-3 trying to pick up his 18th win of the season. At one time he was #1 in the league in ERA, now he is 4th, still with a respectable 2.92 number. The problem is that is high for a pitcher of his caliber – especially the last two years.
If the MLB Rumors are true, I would say that the next start would be the place to go. The Reds will travel to take on the Chicago Cubs. They have several guys already on the roster that could fill in for Cueto. I would like to see Tony Cingrani or Todd Redmond take the mound again. For Redmond, it would be a chance to get some revenge on the Cubs as he lost to them in his one and only other start. For Cingrani, I just like to watch him pitch and see more of him at the MLB level.
Stay tuned for more MLB Rumors at www.RantSports.com.
