The 2024 MLB season is rapidly approaching its denouement, and the race for the coveted Cy Young award is heating up. With just over five and a half weeks of play remaining, the pitching landscape is being meticulously scrutinized by fans and analysts alike. This year's voting format has voters ranking pitchers from 1 to 5 on their ballots, a slight tweak that could influence the outcome of one of baseball's most prestigious honors.
Tarik Skubal’s Dominance
Leading the charge is Tarik Skubal of the Detroit Tigers, who has emerged as a formidable force on the mound. Skubal leads the majors in ERA and ERA+, a testament to his exceptional performance throughout the season. Dominating the American League in categories such as strikeouts, FIP, and strikeout rate, Skubal’s staggering numbers are difficult to overlook. With a stellar record of 14-4, he has consistently been a bright spot for the Tigers.
Despite the Tigers holding a 44-56 record in games where Skubal doesn’t start, his individual brilliance shines through. Skubal also boasts commanding leads in Baseball Reference's version of WAR as well as on FanGraphs' leaderboard. After setting a new career high in innings pitched, Skubal’s stellar season seems to be reaching its peak, even if his regular-season outings have now concluded.
Seth Lugo’s Consistency
San Diego Padres' Seth Lugo has also been a notable contender in the Cy Young conversation. Pitching 166 2/3 innings with a 14-7 record, Lugo's 3.02 ERA and 1.09 WHIP highlight his effectiveness. However, his recent struggles, indicated by a 5.24 ERA over his last seven starts, could impact his Cy Young chances. Consistency is key, and Lugo must rediscover his earlier form to remain in contention.
Logan Gilbert and the Mariners’ Decline
Logan Gilbert of the Seattle Mariners is another name frequently mentioned in Cy Young discussions. With a league-leading WHIP of 0.88 and a 2.96 ERA, Gilbert’s contributions have been significant. Notably, he is second only to Lugo in innings pitched, further underscoring his durability and stamina. Yet, the Mariners’ dramatic stumble since their ten-game lead in June could cast a shadow over Gilbert’s otherwise impressive season.
Other Notable Pitchers
Reigning Cy Young winner Corbin Burnes of the Milwaukee Brewers has encountered challenges this month, posting a 9.00 ERA in his last three starts. His overall record of 12-5 with a 3.10 ERA and 144 strikeouts in 153 2/3 innings reflects his capability, but recent struggles could weigh heavily on voters’ minds.
Emmanuel Clase of the Cleveland Guardians presents a different case. With 37 saves out of 40 opportunities, a 0.63 ERA, and a 0.66 WHIP, Clase has been near-flawless out of the bullpen. His dominance in high-leverage situations makes him a unique but deserving candidate for recognition.
In Houston, Framber Valdez continues to impress with a 13-5 record, a 3.20 ERA, and a 1.14 WHIP over 137 2/3 innings. While not leading the league in any single category, Valdez’s well-rounded performance ensures he remains in the conversation.
Veterans and Rising Stars
Veteran Chris Sale of the Boston Red Sox leads the league in several pitching categories, including wins, strikeouts, FIP, and strikeout rate. However, an absence from the top 10 in innings pitched might affect his chances at taking home another Cy Young award. Meanwhile, Logan Webb of the San Francisco Giants leads the league with 164 2/3 innings pitched, combining longevity with effectiveness, evidenced by his 11-8 record and 3.17 ERA.
Younger talents like Paul Skenes and Hunter Greene are also making their mark. Skenes, with a 7-2 record and a 2.30 ERA, has posted a solid 4.0 WAR. Greene, despite leading the majors in hit batsmen and dealing with an elbow injury, boasts a 9-4 record, a 2.83 ERA, and 162 strikeouts in 143 1/3 innings.
Finally, Ronel Blanco’s spectacular entrance into the league, marked by a no-hitter in his first outing, has him holding a 9-6 record with a 2.89 ERA and 130 strikeouts in 134 innings. Reynaldo López has quietly put together a remarkable season as well, with a 2.06 ERA in 104 2/3 innings.
As the season draws to a close, the battle for the Cy Young award reflects the broader narrative of a season filled with ups, downs, and stellar performances. Voters will have their work cut out for them, ranking these pitching maestros who have each made compelling cases for their candidacy.