The 2024 MLB season is approaching its end, and the race for the coveted Cy Young award remains intensely competitive. With just over five and a half weeks of play remaining, this year's voters face the daunting task of ranking pitchers from one to five on their ballots. Several standout performances have emerged, making this year's decision anything but straightforward.
Commanding Performance by Tarik Skubal
Leading the charge is Tarik Skubal of the Detroit Tigers, who has been nothing short of exceptional. Skubal boasts the league's best ERA and ERA+, leading the American League in strikeouts, Fielding Independent Pitching (FIP), and strikeout rate. His 14-4 record underscores his dominance on the mound, and his influence is starkly evident when considering the Tigers' 44-56 record in games where he doesn't start. Skubal also sits decisively atop Baseball Reference's and FanGraphs' WAR leaderboards, highlighting his value to his team. Despite having already taken his last turn on normal rest this season, Skubal has surpassed his previous career high in innings pitched, marking a milestone in his career.
Challenges for Seth Lugo
Seth Lugo of the San Diego Padres has also had an impressive season, pitching 166 2/3 innings with a 14-7 record. His 3.02 ERA and 1.09 WHIP illustrate his effectiveness, though a recent slump, posting a 5.24 ERA over his last seven starts, might give voters pause. Nevertheless, Lugo has demonstrated resilience throughout the season, and his overall performance keeps him in contention.
Consistency from Logan Gilbert
Logan Gilbert of the Seattle Mariners presents another strong case. With a 2.96 ERA and a league-leading 0.88 WHIP, Gilbert shows remarkable control and efficiency. His substantial workload, being second only to Lugo in innings pitched, proves his reliability. However, the Mariners' dramatic stumble since holding a ten-game lead in June might overshadow his contributions.
Up and Downs for Corbin Burnes
Corbin Burnes, with a 12-5 record and a 3.10 ERA, complements his 144 strikeouts in 153 2/3 innings with consistent proficiency. Yet, his recent downturn, evidenced by a 9.00 ERA in his last three starts, could affect his standing. Burnes needs to finish strong to solidify his candidacy for the prestigious award.
Reliability of Emmanuel Clase
Among closers, Emmanuel Clase has stood out significantly. With 37 saves out of 40 opportunities, a remarkable 0.63 ERA, and a 0.66 WHIP, Clase has been almost untouchable, striking out 49 batters in 57 1/3 innings. His reliability in high-pressure situations adds a distinctive edge to his profile.
Framber Valdez and Chris Sale
Framber Valdez continues to deliver for the Houston Astros with a 13-5 record, a 3.20 ERA, and a 1.14 WHIP over 137 2/3 innings. On the other hand, Chris Sale, leading the league in wins, strikeouts, FIP, and strikeout rate, also dominates FanGraphs' WAR leaderboard. However, his absence from the top 10 in innings pitched might be a critical factor for voters.
Other Notable Performances
Logan Webb’s league-leading 164 2/3 innings pitched, along with his 11-8 record and 3.17 ERA, underline his durability and consistency. Zack Wheeler's impressive 2.72 ERA, 0.98 WHIP, and 162 strikeouts in 148 2/3 innings, together with a 12-5 record, keep him in the conversation. Paul Skenes, although with a more modest 7-2 record, has dazzled with a 2.30 ERA and 121 strikeouts over 98 innings, compiling a solid 4.0 WAR.
Hunter Greene's unique season merits attention as well. With a 9-4 record, 2.83 ERA, and 162 strikeouts in 143 1/3 innings, Greene leads the majors in hit batsmen. However, his campaign is currently hampered by an elbow injury, casting doubt on his availability down the stretch.
Finally, Ronel Blanco's spectacular start, marked by a no-hitter in his first outing, along with a 9-6 record, 2.89 ERA, and 130 strikeouts in 134 innings, positions him as an intriguing candidate. Reynaldo López’s astonishing 2.06 ERA over 104 2/3 innings further accentuates the pool of talented pitchers this season.
As the season edges closer to its end, the battle for the Cy Young award encapsulates the thrilling narratives and individual brilliance that define Major League Baseball. Voters are faced with a wealth of outstanding pitcher performances, each making a compelling case for the honor. Ultimately, the Cy Young race remains wide open, promising an exciting finish to the 2024 season.