The race for the 2024 MLB Cy Young award is heating up as the season approaches its final stretch. With just over five and a half weeks remaining, several pitchers have made compelling cases for this prestigious honor.
Tarik Skubal Shines Bright
Tarik Skubal of the Detroit Tigers has emerged as a frontrunner for the award. Leading the majors in ERA and ERA+, Skubal has been a standout performer. His 14-4 record is even more impressive when considering the Tigers have a dismal 44-56 record in games he doesn’t start. Skubal also tops the AL in strikeouts, FIP, and strikeout rate, further solidifying his candidacy. Currently, he holds a commanding lead in both Baseball Reference's version of WAR and FanGraphs' leaderboard.
Skubal's performance has not come without a toll. He has set a new career high in innings pitched and has taken his last turn on normal rest this season. His durability and consistency have been a cornerstone for the Tigers in a challenging season.
The Contenders
Seth Lugo has also made a strong case with his 14-7 record and 3.02 ERA over 166 2/3 innings. However, a recent slump with a 5.24 ERA over his last seven starts has somewhat dampened his prospects.
Logan Gilbert of the Mariners is another name in the mix. With a 2.96 ERA and league-leading 0.88 WHIP, Gilbert has been a reliable force on the mound. He has pitched the second most innings in the league, trailing only behind Webb. Notably, the Mariners, who had a ten-game lead in June, have stumbled significantly since then, which could impact Gilbert's standing in voters' minds.
Corbin Burnes is maintaining competition with a 12-5 record, 3.10 ERA, and 144 strikeouts in 153 2/3 innings. Burnes, however, has experienced a rough patch with a 9.00 ERA in his three starts this month, which might sway some votes away from him.
Closing the Deal
Emmanuel Clase has been nearly perfect in his role, converting 37 of 40 save opportunities. His 0.63 ERA, 0.66 WHIP, and 49 strikeouts in 57 1/3 innings are eye-popping numbers that may warrant Cy Young consideration, despite the traditional bias towards starting pitchers.
Framber Valdez stands out with his 13-5 record, 3.20 ERA, and 1.14 WHIP over 137 2/3 innings. Although Valdez has not led in any major statistical category, his overall consistency can't be overlooked.
Webb and Wheeler’s Contributions
Logan Webb has been a workhorse, leading the league with 164 2/3 innings pitched. With an 11-8 record and a 3.17 ERA, Webb's durability and reliability have been significant for his campaign.
Zack Wheeler's performance is also noteworthy with a 12-5 record, league-leading 2.72 ERA, and 162 strikeouts in 148 2/3 innings. His 0.98 WHIP underscores his dominance on the mound.
Emerging Talent
Paul Skenes, a relative newcomer, has made a remarkable impact with a 7-2 record, 2.30 ERA, and 121 strikeouts in 98 innings. His 4.0 WAR attests to his valuable contribution, putting him in strong consideration despite fewer innings pitched.
Hunter Greene, though plagued by an elbow injury, has an impressive 9-4 record, 2.83 ERA, and 162 strikeouts in 143 1/3 innings. Leading the majors in hit batsmen might reflect his control issues, yet his potential is undeniable.
Remarkable Performances
Ronel Blanco’s season started with a bang as he threw a no-hitter in his first outing. Now standing at 9-6 with a 2.89 ERA and 130 strikeouts in 134 innings, Blanco has shown flashes of brilliance worthy of recognition.
Lastly, Reynaldo López's remarkable 2.06 ERA over 104 2/3 innings cannot be ignored. While relievers often face an uphill battle in Cy Young voting, López’s dominance might attract some attention.
As the season draws to a close, each start becomes ever more critical. The Cy Young race remains open, with many deserving pitchers vying for the top spot. Voters will have a tough decision ranking these outstanding athletes, each of whom has displayed exceptional skill and determination throughout the season.