July 26--The Kansas City Royals strengthened their postseason aspirations Sunday by acquiring starting pitcher Johnny Cueto from the Cincinnati Reds in exchange for three prospects.
Kansas City, which has the best record in the American League, adds a legitimate ace to its pitching rotation in Cueto, who ranks 14th in the majors with a 2.62 earned-run average. Last year, he won 20 games for the Reds with a 2.25 ERA.
The Royals are considered one of the top contenders for the World Series crown after losing to the San Francisco Giants in Game 7 last year. However, their rotation took a blow last week when Jason Vargas suffered a season-ending elbow injury.
Cueto, 29, is eligible for free agency after this season. He has played his entire career with Cincinnati after making his debut with the team in 2008. The right-hander posted a 92-63 career record with the Reds.
In exchange for Cueto, Cincinnati got minor-league pitchers Brandon Finnegan, John Lamb and Cody Reed.
Cueto isn't the only pitcher the Reds could be looking to move before Friday's non-waiver deadline -- Mike Leake and Ardolis Chapman reportedly are also on the trading block.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
