Cincinnati Reds designate one-time top Toronto Blue Jays pitching prospect for assignment

Right handed pitcher Yosver Zulueta has been designated for assignment. The move is in correspondence to the recent signing of fellow righty Pierce Johnson, who now takes Zulu's place on the 40-man roster.

There was a time not so long ago when Zulueta was considered a high-end pitching prospect. It's what led the Toronto Blue Jays to sign him as an international free agent back in 2019.

While the Cuban righty had a decent first couple of years in the minors, his development plateaued upon reaching Triple-A Buffalo. After adding him to the 40-man roster to protect him from the Rule 5 Draft in 2022, the Blue Jays cut ties with him less than two years, designating him for assignment on the eve of the 2024 season.

He ended being claimed by the Reds the same day as his DFA and ultimately made his major league debut three months later in late June.

While he got into 12 games in 2024, it wasn't until late 2025 that he picked up his first major league, when he threw 2/3 scoreless innings against the his former team the Blue Jays.

In spite of that win, his numbers weren't great in 2025, as he accrued a 6.14 ERA in seven games.

In spite on his limited big league experience, Zulueta has a solid record at Triple-A and in the minor leagues. It will be on the strength of this that he will find his next big league opportunity.

At 27, the Cuban is entering his prime years, but will likely take a minor league deal with a Spring Training invite.

Also read on Blue Jays Central :
Vladimir Guerrero Jr shares feelings on Toronto Blue Jays losing Bo Bichette