Giants RHP Johnny Cueto Named 2016 Dominican Pitcher of the Year

Johnny Cueto surely didn't disappoint in his first season with the San Francisco Giants. And on Thursday, Cueto was honored for his efforts in 2016. 

Cueto was unanimously named the 2016 Dominican Pitcher of the Year for the third time in his career. The 30-year-old also won the award after the 2012 season and the 2014 season. 

In 2016, Cueto fit the bill of a staff ace alongside Madison Bumgarner after signing a six-year, $130 million deal with San Francisco in the offseason. Forming a 1-2 punch with Bumgarner, Cueto compiled an 18-5 record with a 2.79 ERA. He also finished a career-high five complete games, and tossed 219.2 innings while mowing down 198 batters. 

Once the postseason came around, Cueto was dominant in his only start. Facing Jon Lester and the Cubs, Cueto went eight innings and only allowed three hits in a 1-0 loss in Game 1 of the NLDS. 

Cueto made his second All-Star Game in 2016, starting on the hill for the National League, and also finished sixth in NL Cy Young Award voting.

Though he signed a six-year deal with San Francisco, Cueto's contract includes an opt-out clause after the 2017 season. Cueto went to social media to show his gratitude for winning the award. The Giants congratulated Cueto, too.

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