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MLB Free Agency: 5 potential landing spots for Johnny Cueto

By Dave Stevenson

Oct 14, 2015; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Johnny Cueto reacts after retiring the Houston Astros in the 7th inning in game five of the ALDS at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 14, 2015; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Johnny Cueto reacts after retiring the Houston Astros in the 7th inning in game five of the ALDS at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 14, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; the Toronto Blue Jays celebrate defeating the Texas Rangers in game five of the ALDS at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 14, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; the Toronto Blue Jays celebrate defeating the Texas Rangers in game five of the ALDS at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports /

Toronto Blue Jays

The Blue Jays are going to be in the market for a top of the rotation starter since they will most likely be losing David Price. Their rotation next year is going to most likely feature three young starters who have never thrown 200 innings in a single season. If they want to go all-in for one more World Series run, they’re going to need to add a guy who they know can give them 200 innings at the top of the rotation. Johnny Cueto fits that description perfectly.

Toronto could be an enticing destination for Johnny Cueto for several reasons. Cueto pitched for the Reds for a majority of his career. They’ve usually had a good lineup. Their lineup pales to what Toronto will be trotting out every day. Toronto is going to score a ton of runs next season. Cueto is an ace who doesn’t allow many runs. That sounds like a match made in heaven.

Cueto would also get the opportunity to lead a rotation that could be something special for the next few seasons. Cueto is a veteran who prides himself in his preparation. Marcus Stroman and Aaron Sanchez could learn a lot from him. They certainly benefitted from the presence of David Price for a few months. The Blue Jays would be wise to make sure that they have someone for the young pitchers to look up to as they continue to develop.

Johnny Cueto would also be a great fit for the Jays because he pitched in a similar ballpark with the Reds. Cueto tends to allow a lot of fly balls but usually doesn’t give up too many homers. That would be a great fit with the Toronto outfielders. Kevin Pillar is the kind of guy who chases down just about everything that doesn’t leave the park. Revere can get to pretty much anything in left field. Bautista isn’t winning any awards with his defense in right field, but he’s good enough.

Toronto probably gives Johnny Cueto the best chance to win.

Next: If Cueto likes Blue, he could keep wearing it

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