Yosver Zulueta who was released by the Toronto Bluejays earlier this season and then traded to the Cincinnati Reds, has been effective in his brief time out of the team’s bullpen this season. In 9.2IP the right-hander has a 3.72 and has fanned nine batters.
Zulueta, who is the 29th Cuban to see action in MLB this season began his career as a starter, but significant issues with his control moved him to the bullpen in recent years. The move to a relief role didn’t help him get a handle on things and contributed to him being removed from the 40-man roster entirely by Toronto earlier this year.
The native Villa Clara,Cuba who participated in the last two Futures games, dropped sharply in the Jays TOP-30 prospects, going from being the organization’s third ranked prospect to number 17 this year. He was expected to make his MLB debut in 2023, but that event never came to fruition.
The 26-year-old Cuban has battled back from various injuries to establish himself as a major leaguer. Zulueta combines a 95-97 MPH fastball, an above-average curveball, mid-80’s slider and good changeup. With four quality pitches Zulueta could be a good reliever for the Reds if he can put it all together.
Since you arrived in Cincinnati your control has improved. What adjustments have you made?
Well, since I’m in the bullpen I’ve started pitching more regularly, almost every day, about 4-5 times a week, and I think that has helped me a lot.
How did the move from Toronto to Cincinnati affect you as a pitcher?
I wouldn’t say it affected me. It was more of a challenge, an opportunity that opened up for me. I don’t think it has affected me, rather I think it has been beneficial so far.
How did your time in the winter with the Leones del Escogido help you in your development?
Yes that month in the LIDOM helped me a lot. I faced plenty of very experienced hitters who have played in the Major Leagues for many seasons, and well, it did help me. Especially in gaining experience.
There is another Cuban on this team: Nick Martínez. Has he given you any advice?
Yes, I always try to ask him and the other more experienced pitchers who are here. Especially when were are in the bullpen and I ask them about other things pertaining to pitching.
Any goals for the remainder of the season.
First of all, stay healthy, and second finish the year in the majors.