NL All-Star Final Vote: A case for each candidate
By Tim Haberin
Johnny Cueto – 6-5, 2.61 ERA, 113.2 IP, 111 K
Apr 11, 2015; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cincinnati Reds starting pitcher Johnny Cueto (47) pitches during the third inning against the St. Louis Cardinals at Great American Ball Park. Mandatory Credit: Frank Victores-USA TODAY Sports
Trade rumors did little to deter Cincinnati Reds ace Johnny Cueto from putting together a typically great first half in 2015. He has been a workhorse for the Reds rotation, averaging over seven innings pitched per start.
He also gave his argument a massive boost last night by turning in a masterful performance in Washington. Cueto tossed a complete game shutout, holding the Nationals to only two hits on the evening. He also struck out 11 and walked only one. Reds fans will hope the dominant showing compels voters to send another hometown star to the game alongside starting third baseman Todd Frazier and closer Aroldis Chapman.
Cueto’s situation has an unusual wrinkle, however. He is currently in line to start this Sunday, the final day before the break, which would make him ineligible to pitch in the All-Star Game itself. Unless the Reds alter his schedule, winning the Final Vote could mean only an honorary ASG selection for Cueto. Another player (maybe even one on this ballot) would presumably take his spot in a two-for-one deal.
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