The 2024 MLB season is inching towards its highly anticipated climax, with awards conversations heating up as the Cy Young race remains incredibly tight. As voters prepare to rank pitchers 1-5 on their ballots, several standout performances are making the task anything but straightforward.
Tarik Skubal's Dominance
Tarik Skubal of the Detroit Tigers has been nothing short of sensational this season. Leading the majors in ERA and ERA+, Skubal has also carved up the American League with the highest number of strikeouts, the best FIP, and the top strikeout rate. With a commendable record of 14-4, his impact is evident, especially given the Tigers’ 44-56 performance in games he hasn’t started.
Further solidifying his case, Skubal leads in Baseball Reference’s version of WAR and tops FanGraphs’ leaderboard as well. This season has seen him pitch more innings than ever before, indicating a newfound durability. Despite taking his last turn on normal rest this year, Skubal continues to be a formidable presence on the mound.
Seth Lugo's Competing Resume
Seth Lugo has also made a compelling argument for Cy Young consideration. With 166 2/3 innings pitched and a record of 14-7, his 3.02 ERA and 1.09 WHIP have kept him in the conversation. However, a recent downturn—with a 5.24 ERA over his last seven starts—could potentially diminish his standing in the eyes of voters.
Logan Gilbert's Quiet Excellence
Logan Gilbert of the Mariners has maintained a 2.96 ERA and leads the league with an impressive 0.88 WHIP. His efforts have not gone unnoticed, especially as he sits just behind Lugo in innings pitched. Despite the Mariners' once-promising season taking a nosedive since June, Gilbert’s consistent performance continues to shine.
Corbin Burnes' Consistency
Corbin Burnes has also made a strong case with a 12-5 record, a 3.10 ERA, and 144 strikeouts in 153 2/3 innings. However, his 9.00 ERA in his last three starts is a worrisome trend as the season winds down, potentially impacting his candidacy for the coveted award.
Emmanuel Clase's Historic Year
Among relievers, Emmanuel Clase stands out with 37 saves in 40 opportunities. His microscopic 0.63 ERA and 0.66 WHIP, coupled with 49 strikeouts in 57 1/3 innings, have made him nearly unhittable. While relievers rarely win the Cy Young, Clase’s exceptional performance warrants attention.
Framber Valdez and Logan Webb
Framber Valdez has been nothing if not reliable for his team, boasting a 13-5 record, a 3.20 ERA, and a 1.14 WHIP over 137 2/3 innings. Meanwhile, Logan Webb leads the league in innings pitched at 164 2/3, with an 11-8 record and a 3.17 ERA. Both pitchers have been pillars for their respective rotations.
Zack Wheeler's Outstanding Season
Zack Wheeler’s season is also noteworthy. With a 12-5 record, a 2.72 ERA, a 0.98 WHIP, and 162 strikeouts in 148 2/3 innings, his contributions have been pivotal for his team’s success. Wheeler’s all-around stats make him a strong Cy Young candidate.
The Young Guns: Paul Skenes and Hunter Greene
Youths like Paul Skenes and Hunter Greene have shown flashes of brilliance as well. Skenes boasts a 7-2 record, a 2.30 ERA, and 121 strikeouts in 98 innings, with a 4.0 WAR backing up his breakout season. Greene, despite leading the majors in hit batsmen and dealing with an elbow injury, has a record of 9-4, a 2.83 ERA, and 162 strikeouts in 143 1/3 innings.
Impressive Performances from Blanco and Lopez
Lastly, Ronel Blanco and Reynaldo López deserve recognition. Blanco threw a no-hitter in his first outing and currently holds a 9-6 record with a 2.89 ERA and 130 strikeouts in 134 innings. López, with a 2.06 ERA in 104 2/3 innings, has also made significant contributions.
The race for the Cy Young is anything but clear-cut this season. As the final weeks of the 2024 MLB season unfold, every pitch will count, and every outing could tip the scales for these premier pitchers. The decision facing voters will undoubtedly be one of the toughest in recent memory.