Cincinnati Reds’ Johnny Cueto to start in the finale against Houston Astros – MLB News
The Cincinnati Reds have slated Johnny Cueto as the starter for the three-game series finale scheduled for Sunday, September 9 against the Houston Astros. Cueto, who had lost the last game, will try to win his 18th match of the season, a record in Major League Baseball.
Cueto has five more outings before the regular season ends. It is also worthwhile to recall that Johnny remains one of the strongest contenders for the Cy Young Award. His defeat in the last start against the Philadelphia Phillies does not cause any particular worry as far as the Cy Young Award goes.
That is what the Cincinnati Reds’ starter asserted when he lost the game.
"I don't think that it will hurt. I still have five more outings," Cueto said regarding his Cy Young chances. "I just have to keep going on [the] outings I have. To be honest with you, I don't think about those things. I just want to do my job, and make sure I get the job done."
With an impressive 1.87 ERA, Cueto holds an 11-1 record, outshining all rivals in the National League. He will be a daunting starter for any rival in the American League if the Reds manage to make it to the World Series. The Reds currently occupy top spot in the National League Central and Cueto has played a big role in bolstering the team’s defence.
Astros, on the other hand, have named their ace Edgar Gonzalez for Sunday’s start. He is full of confidence as far as the finale is concerned.
"This is the best thing that's happened to me this year -- to make the comeback to the big leagues, and I feel great," Gonzalez said. "I appreciate the Astros giving me the chance to throw in the big leagues, and I'm going to work hard every day to stay here."
It will be interesting to see if Cueto succeeds in securing his 18th win in the season. While the win will also embolden the Reds in the League, the Astros will try to act as a spoiler in the Division.
The tremendous performance by Cueto for the Reds has definitely helped the team dominate weaker clubs throughout the season. Cincinnati will be looking to build up some momentum at this crucial stage of the season.
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