News and Transactions –Cueto, Esposito and Slowey

It wasone and out for Johnny Cueto, sent back to high Single–A Sarasota on Wednesday from the Triple-A International League. It wasn’t what I expected after viewing the results, but I can’t protest too much. It’s likely the right move for development reasons, his high-minor start possibly related more to the lack of hitting in the International League than prowess. Other than overage college draft picks, few can afford to skip the Double-A test. I’m guessing there will be a few changes to the Reds situation between now and the All-Star break; Cueto will probably be the recipient of a permanent promotion at that time.

The Cardinals called up Brian Esposito from Triple-A Memphis to replace Yadier Molina who will be out 4-6 weeks with a fractured left wrist. Garry Bennett will likely assume the regular catching duties for the time, and Esposito will be the back up. Ironically, Esposito profiles a little like Bennett as the 28-year-old is an outstanding defensive catcher who can’t hit a lick. He might someday be the back up to Bryan Anderson, the Cardinals offensive catcher of the future who is currently hitting .284 with three home runs for Double-A Springfield.

The Twins made it official on Wednesday, purchasing the contract of Kevin Slowey, optioning Julio DePaula to Triple-A and placing Jesse Crain on the 60-Day DL. I spoke about this on Sports Byline USA Radio Wednesday afternoon. Slowey is the second best pitching prospect to be called up this year, but unlike Tim Lincecum, I think some -- most notably fantasy leaguers -- may end up disappointed. The skill set of Slowey doesn’t suggest his numbers will be great in 2007. He’s in training, developing at the major league level. The pitcher he’s often compared to by others is Brad Radke, and I’m not certain how many remember how badly he struggled when first called up as a 22-year-old prospect back in 1995, not becoming a consistent pitcher until 1997. I won’t go as far as to suggest it’ll be Radke-bad, certainly Slowey is an improvement over Ramon Ortiz at present, but there’s much in evidence to suggest a lengthily learning curve.