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

By Mike Santa Barbara | Last updated 1/19/23

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.

#Marlins Johnny Cueto has an introductory entrance for the ages. @MLB pic.twitter.com/y44UfWwsxh
— Christina De Nicola (@CDeNicola13) January 19, 2023

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.

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