The 2024 MLB season is approaching its final stretch, and the race for the prestigious Cy Young award is heating up with just over five weeks of play remaining. As voters prepare to rank pitchers 1-5 on their ballots, a few standout performances have emerged, making the competition as intense as ever.
Tarik Skubal's Stellar Season
Leading the charge in the American League is Tarik Skubal of the Detroit Tigers. Skubal not only tops the majors in ERA and ERA+ but also leads the AL in strikeouts, FIP, and strikeout rate. With an impressive record of 14-4, Skubal has been a bright spot for the Tigers, who hold a 44-56 record in games where he doesn't start. Additionally, Skubal has a commanding lead in Baseball Reference's version of WAR and FanGraphs' leaderboard, further solidifying his case for the Cy Young award.
Skubal's season has been nothing short of remarkable. He has set a new career high in innings pitched, a testament to both his endurance and his effectiveness on the mound. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Skubal to see if he can maintain his dominant form.
Contenders and Challenges
Seth Lugo is another name to watch in the Cy Young discussion. Lugo has pitched 166 2/3 innings with a record of 14-7, boasting a 3.02 ERA and a 1.09 WHIP. However, a recent slump has seen him post a 5.24 ERA over his last seven starts, potentially jeopardizing his chances.
Logan Gilbert of the Seattle Mariners presents a strong case as well. Gilbert, who holds a 2.96 ERA and leads the league in WHIP at 0.88, is second only to Lugo in innings pitched. Despite the Mariners' dramatic fall from their ten-game lead in June, Gilbert's performance remains a highlight.
Corbin Burnes has also been a solid contender with a 12-5 record, a 3.10 ERA, and 144 strikeouts in 153 2/3 innings. However, Burnes has struggled recently, allowing a 9.00 ERA in his three starts this month, which might influence voters' decisions.
Relief and Rising Stars
In the bullpen, Emmanuel Clase has been nothing short of extraordinary, achieving 37 saves out of 40 opportunities. His microscopic 0.63 ERA and 0.66 WHIP, alongside 49 strikeouts in 57 1/3 innings, make him a valuable asset to his team, though relievers rarely win the Cy Young.
Another formidable pitcher is Framber Valdez, with a 13-5 record, a 3.20 ERA, and a 1.14 WHIP over 137 2/3 innings. Although not leading in any major single category, Valdez's consistency keeps him in the conversation.
The Workhorses
Chris Sale leads the league in wins, strikeouts, FIP, and strikeout rate, as well as holding the top spot in FanGraphs' WAR. However, his innings pitched are not in the top 10, which could be a point of contention for voters.
Meanwhile, Logan Webb leads the league with 164 2/3 innings pitched. His 11-8 record and 3.17 ERA showcase his durability and reliability, traits highly valued in the Cy Young race.
Emerging Talents and Injury Concerns
Zack Wheeler is making a strong case with a 12-5 record, a 2.72 ERA, and a 0.98 WHIP. His 162 strikeouts in 148 2/3 innings put him in a strong position for the award. Paul Skenes, with a 7-2 record, a 2.30 ERA, and 121 strikeouts in 98 innings, is another rising star, already posting a 4.0 WAR in his debut season.
Hunter Greene, despite being a leading candidate with a 9-4 record, a 2.83 ERA, and 162 strikeouts in 143 1/3 innings, faces concerns with an elbow injury that could impact his chances.
Lastly, Ronel Blanco's no-hitter in his first outing has been the highlight of an already impressive season. Blanco stands at 9-6 with a 2.89 ERA and 130 strikeouts in 134 innings. Similarly, Reynaldo López has demonstrated his prowess with a 2.06 ERA in 104 2/3 innings.
As the season reaches its climax, the competition for the Cy Young award remains wide open. With outstanding performances across the board, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining who ultimately secures one of baseball's highest honors.