There’s no denying the electric stuff that Cincinnati Reds rookie right-hander Johnny Cueto possesses. His explosive fastball reaches the upper 90s, and he matches it with a disappearing changeup that sits in the lower 80s. Opponents are batting .255 against him; he doesn’t walk batters; and he averages 8.7 strikeouts per inning.

So, how is it that the phenom has a 5.56 ERA after 10 starts? Well, it’s a number of different things, all generated by an extreme inability to stay composed in tight situations.

Name a pressure-packed scenario, and Cueto has faired poorly in it. Runners on base? Opponents are batting .338. Scoring position? That number rises to .438. Against a team’s most dangerous hitters? Opposing No. 4s and 5s are 16-for-46 (.348) with 10 home runs. On the road? He’s 0-3 with a 9.16 ERA.

The flaws were in full effect at Dodger Stadium on Wednesday. Los Angeles took the lead for good against him in the second when he threw a wild pitch with James Loney on third, then misplayed a squeeze bunt to allow Chin-lung Hu to score. Later, he air-mailed a pickoff throw to allow another run.

There’s no telling how and when Cueto will mature and begin pitching with more consistency. He’s owned in most fantasy leagues, but it’s time to consider letting him go. I actually did so after his last start, when he was perfect into the sixth, then allowed three Cleveland Indians home runs to get a no-decision.

None of the signs are there that he’ll gain a sudden calmness on the mound. The best you can do is keep him on your roster, only permit him to start at home, and use discretion with each individual matchup. Put him on probation or banish him to the waiver wire. Give him too long of a leash, and he’s bound to choke you with it.

More thoughts on Cueto …
Roto Professor takes a closer look at Cueto’s May 11th start against the Mets.

Northern Kentucky Sports Fan reacts to Reds’ fans calling for Cueto to be traded.

Crosley Field Terrace is pumped that Cueto was on the cover of Baseball America.

Dustin Hockensmith is editor of ImaginaryDiamond.com. He can be contacted at dhockensmith[at]fantasysports101.net.