The 2024 MLB season is rapidly drawing attention as it nears its end, with the competition for the Cy Young award heating up. With just over five and a half weeks of regular play remaining, several pitchers stand out in the race for this prestigious accolade, which sees voters ranking their top five choices on the ballot this year. Among the leading contenders, Tarik Skubal of the Detroit Tigers has emerged as a formidable candidate.
Skubal's Commanding Performance
Tarik Skubal is leading the majors in ERA and ERA+, a testament to his dominance on the mound. Skubal not only tops the American League in strikeouts, but also in FIP and strikeout rate, solidifying his role as one of the premier pitchers this season. With a stellar record of 14-4, Skubal has been a beacon of consistency and excellence for the Tigers, who hold a 44-56 record in games where he doesn't start.
Adding to his impressive resume, Skubal has set a new career high in innings pitched this season. His commanding lead in Baseball Reference's version of WAR and FanGraphs' leaderboard underscores his significant impact. As Skubal takes his last turn on normal rest this season, he’s likely locking his place in the minds of voters.
Impressive Stats Across the Board
Seth Lugo of the Padres has also thrown his hat into the ring with a commendable record of 14-7 and an ERA of 3.02 over 166 2/3 innings, paired with a 1.09 WHIP. However, Lugo's recent performance has been less than stellar, posting a 5.24 ERA over his last seven starts, potentially weakening his standing for the Cy Young award.
Meanwhile, Logan Gilbert of the Mariners boasts a strong 2.96 ERA and leads the league in WHIP with a minuscule 0.88. Gilbert is second only to Lugo in innings pitched, showcasing his durability and prowess on the mound. However, the Mariners' significant stumble since maintaining a ten-game lead in June might affect his chances.
Another competitor, Corbin Burnes of the Brewers, maintains a solid record of 12-5 with a 3.10 ERA and 144 strikeouts in 153 2/3 innings. Yet, Burnes' recent 9.00 ERA over his last three starts could be a detrimental factor in the final voting.
Relievers and Rookie Standouts
Emmanuel Clase of the Guardians has been nothing short of spectacular in the bullpen, achieving 37 saves out of 40 opportunities and boasting a 0.63 ERA, 0.66 WHIP, and 49 strikeouts in 57 1/3 innings. His performance has been a critical asset for his team and might position him favorably in the eyes of Cy Young voters.
Framber Valdez of the Astros also deserves mention with a record of 13-5, a 3.20 ERA, and a 1.14 WHIP over 137 2/3 innings. Despite his commendable performance, Valdez might find it challenging to stand out amidst such fierce competition.
Veteran pitcher Chris Sale leads the pack in several key categories, including wins, strikeouts, FIP, strikeout rate, and FanGraphs' WAR. However, not being in the top 10 for innings pitched could impact his candidacy.
Logan Webb of the Giants leads the league with 164 2/3 innings pitched and holds a record of 11-8 with a 3.17 ERA. His consistency and durability make him a notable contender in this closely contested race.
Final Competitors
Zack Wheeler of the Phillies has been another standout, with a 12-5 record, a 2.72 ERA, a 0.98 WHIP, and 162 strikeouts in 148 2/3 innings. His impressive statistics across the board might give him an edge as the season winds down.
Rookie sensation Paul Skenes has also made waves with a 7-2 record, a 2.30 ERA, and 121 strikeouts in 98 innings, amassing a 4.0 WAR. His performance, despite being in his rookie season, has been remarkable and noteworthy.
Hunter Greene of the Reds, despite leading the majors in hit batsmen and currently being sidelined by an elbow injury, has a strong record of 9-4, a 2.83 ERA, and 162 strikeouts in 143 1/3 innings.
Additionally, Ronel Blanco threw a no-hitter in his first outing and has maintained a 9-6 record with a 2.89 ERA and 130 strikeouts in 134 innings. Reynaldo López, with a 2.06 ERA in 104 2/3 innings, has also been a notable contributor.
As the race for the Cy Young award reaches its final lap, the performances of these pitchers will continue to be scrutinized, with every game potentially influencing the ultimate outcome. The competition remains fierce, and only time will tell who will emerge victorious in this tightly contested battle.