Yardbarker
x
Watch: Johnny Cueto introduces himself to Marlins' fans in epic fashion
Pitcher Johnny Cueto. Aaron Josefczyk-USA TODAY Sports

Watch: Marlins SP Johnny Cueto introduces himself to Marlins' fans in epic fashion

On Thursday, newly signed Miami Marlins starting pitcher Johnny Cueto set a new, extremely high bar for introductory press conferences. 

More than a week after agreeing to a one-year, $8.5 million contract with the Marlins, the team formally introduced the right-hander with a hero's welcome. 

Draped in a Dominican Republic flag, Cueto walked from centerfield to the pitchers' mound at LoanDepot Park while music played in the background. The 36-year-old then erupted into dance while grinning from ear to ear. 

Cueto told the Miami Herald's Jordan McPherson that it was an "honor" to join the Marlins.

"Just the way the organization welcomed me and the city. It was great," Cueto said. "It was a feeling like I was back home." 

Cueto had a solid season last year with the Chicago White Sox, finishing 8-10 with a 3.35 ERA in 24 starts. Cueto pitched 158.1 innings, the most he's thrown in seven seasons.

A two-time All-Star, Cueto has started 353 games, going 143-107 over 15 seasons with the Cincinnati Reds, Kansas City Royals, San Francisco Giants and White Sox. 

Cueto's unique, over-the-top introduction with the Marlins might start a trend throughout baseball. Who knows, maybe every free agent signing will have an extravagant welcome in the future. The possibilities are endless, but Cueto has the crown, for now.

Mike Santa Barbara

Mike Santa Barbara is a Wilmington, Delaware native (Yes, it's a real place) with over a decade of sports writing experience. A diehard Philadelphia sports fan, he has two dogs named after Flyers and cried real tears when the Eagles won Super Bowl LII. You can follow him on Twitter at @mike__sb

More must-reads:

Customize Your Newsletter

Yardbarker +

Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!