The Chicago White Sox were handed a serious blow on Sunday when it was announced ace Lance Lynn will miss at least four weeks with a knee injury. While their rotation is still strong with the likes of Lucas Giolito, Dylan Cease, and Michael Kopech, the White Sox could use another proven starter for the time being.
According to Mike Rodriguez and Hector Gomez, the South Siders are interested in veteran right-hander Johnny Cueto, who spent 2021 with the San Francisco Giants:
According @mikedeportes the #WhiteSox are showing interest in RHP Johnny Cueto. https://t.co/o6J2D77wBZ
— Héctor Gómez (@hgomez27) April 4, 2022
Cueto made 21 starts last season, going 7-7 with a 4.08 ERA. He also struck out 98 in 114.1 innings of work. Obviously, Cueto isn't the same pitcher who once sat consistently in the mid-90s with his fastball, but he's still effective and brings a ton of experience to the table. Cueto is currently a free agent.
This wouldn't be a bad move for the White Sox by any means. Once Lynn returns, you could even put Cueto in the bullpen potentially as a long reliever. If he really thrives, though, there is also the possibility of Chicago keeping him in the rotation as well.
Aside from his abilities on the mound, Cueto could also be a mentor and leader for a young White Sox team that continues to struggle to get over that playoff hump.
It will be interesting to see if they sign him.