Johnny Cueto Agrees to a Four-Year Extension with the Reds

Right-handed pitcher Johnny Cueto has agreed to a 4-year, $27 million contract extension with the Cincinnati Reds. The native Dominican made his Major League debut with the Reds and is staying with them, at least until his first year for free agency eligibility. Cueto was recently seeking arbitration for $3.9 million while the Reds were offering $3 million. With this contract extension, the Reds have bought out all three years of Cueto's arbitration eligibility, and another year of potential free agency. This comes to somewhat of a shock because the Reds and Cueto were having preliminary discussions about a long-term deal in December, but shortly ended. The talks ended because the Reds were looking to sign Jay Bruce and Joey Votto first. The Reds have spent a total of $151 million this offseason in salary pay. There are very few Reds that are important to the ball club that haven't been signed. Edinson Volquez is one of the only Reds to not be signed after seeking arbitration. Cueto posted a 3.64 ERA in 2010 and has a career 4.27 ERA. This was a career best for Cueto, going 12-7, having 185 (2/3) innings pitched, and only 56 walks allowed. But it is now that the Reds have "beefed up" their infield, outfield, pitching staff, and bullpen. The overall strengthening of the team, and spending by the Reds' front office shows they want another pennant in 2011. As of now, it appears that Cueto will be the Reds number one starter in the rotation, so we will look forward to him pitching on opening day in the Great American Ball Park against the Brewers. In the next four years with the Reds, I wish you good luck Johnny Cueto.