In a remarkable achievement that solidifies his place in baseball history, Tarik Skubal of the Detroit Tigers has clinched the 2024 American League Cy Young Award. The 28-year-old pitcher received all 30 first-place votes from the Baseball Writers Association of America, making him the third consecutive unanimous winner in the American League, following in the footsteps of Justin Verlander in 2022 and Gerrit Cole in 2023. This rare unanimity underscores Skubal's dominance on the mound throughout the season.
A Season to Remember
Throughout the 2024 season, Skubal's performances have been nothing short of stellar. He posted an 18-4 record, leading the league with a 2.39 ERA and topping the American League in Fielding Independent Pitching (FIP) with a 2.50. His impressive ERA+, a statistic that adjusts a pitcher's ERA according to the pitcher's ballpark and the league's overall ERA, stood at an exceptional 170. Additionally, Skubal's wins above replacement (WAR) value of 6.3 was the highest among all pitchers, further illustrating the invaluable contribution he made to his team.
Skubal's prowess wasn't limited to regular-season play. In the postseason, he remained a force on the mound, with a 2.37 ERA over three starts. Demonstrating remarkable control and consistency, he allowed no unearned runs and amassed 20 strikeouts over 19 innings, while walking just one batter unintentionally. His ability to perform under pressure further cements his reputation as a top-tier pitcher.
The Tools of His Trade
One of the significant factors contributing to Skubal's exceptional year was the addition of a changeup to his pitching repertoire. This new tool helped him confound hitters, who managed just a .558 OPS against him over the season. Skubal displayed remarkable versatility and endurance, averaging over six innings per start and achieving 22 quality starts in 31 appearances. His capacity to dominate games was evident in the three instances where he struck out at least ten batters.
In a year filled with milestones, Skubal also made his first appearance at the All-Star game, reflecting recognition from fans and peers alike. The culmination of these successes came on a particularly special day for Skubal, as the announcement of his Cy Young Award win coincided with his 28th birthday—a fitting present for a player whose hard work and dedication have now been officially acknowledged.
Continuing the Tigers' Legacy
Skubal's Cy Young victory adds to the storied legacy of Detroit Tigers pitchers. Just over a decade ago, Max Scherzer claimed the prestigious award in 2013 as a member of the Tigers. Such accomplishments highlight the rich history and tradition of excellence in pitching that have become synonymous with the franchise.
Skubal's remarkable season is not only a personal triumph but also a testament to the sustained efforts and strategic decisions made by the Tigers' coaching staff. His ability to integrate new strategies and pitches into his game speaks volumes about his adaptability and the guidance he has received throughout his career.
As baseball enthusiasts reflect on the 2024 season, Skubal's name is assuredly etched into discussions of exceptional pitching. His performance has set a new benchmark, inspiring both seasoned players and future talents. With Skubal leading the charge, the Detroit Tigers look poised to continue their pursuit of excellence, backed by a pitcher whose talent and resolve suggest this is only the beginning.