Johnny Cueto continues to be the Cincinnati Reds’ ace
The onset of offseason has brought some issues for the Cincinnati Reds that the club is taking its time to resolve. Since it requires calm demeanour and patience to sort out the problems, there is no haste that the front office has exhibited.
Of many challenges that the Reds are currently faced with, there is a lingering question over rotation. Should the club switch to unprecedented and seemingly impractical option of using six pitchers in rotation?
While they are taking their time to make the final decision, Johnny Cueto is bracing himself for the role to execute- effectively and consistently, as the club’s ace.
That is because the Reds pitching coach – Bryan Price, knows what the club is supposed to do with other questions and debate – including, of course the simmering issue of using sixth pitcher in the rotation.
Knowing there will be criticism and praise, aware what could be the fallout, the pitching coach is to make all decisions after having spoken to manager, general manager.
"I think everyone will want to know the plan and a solid hard number for innings," Price said. "I get it. It's a point of interest. It's a great talking point. It will be a debatable issue. Whatever we choose to do, there's always going to be an opposing
side that feels we could do things better. We have to be satisfied with our choices, because our intent will be to get the most out of Aroldis without putting him in a high-risk position.
"I have some ideas, and I'm sure Walt and Dusty, our training staff and doctor do as well. We'll have a plan, and it will be something we can coordinate and feel good about going forward."
Johnny Cueto, on the other hand, is focused on what challenge he is to deal with. He was, beyond any shadow of doubt, one of the most successful starters in the National League this past season.
Of the 94 games that the Reds won, the pitcher had his remarkable contribution. In the 33 appearances that he got, Cueto had two complete games, posting 2.78 ERA in 217 innings, having 19-9 record.
He remained third in wins and ERA simultaneously in the National League, along with his fifth position in most innings pitched with the .679 winning percentage. The solid foundation that he provided to the team in rotation this past season won him critical
acclaim.
While the Reds won the National League Central title, his fitness problem in the Game 1 of the Natonal League Division Series – which was played against the San Francisco Giants, proved costly for the Reds.
The Reds eventually lost the series and were eliminated. His absence, goes without saying, was conspicuous. That Cueto remains instrumental for the team’s success had its incontrovertible evidence here.
In the upcoming season, therefore, the Reds will count on him the most as the club’s ace. Among other things, his remaining fit and in form will be a determining factor in the team’s success.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are the writer's own and do not reflect the official editorial policy of Bettor.com
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