The 2024 MLB season is rapidly drawing to a close, and the competition for the prestigious Cy Young award is heating up. With just over five and a half weeks left in the regular season, the race remains fiercely competitive. This year, voters will have to rank pitchers 1-5 on their ballots, reflecting the depth of talent on display.
Commanding Performances and Uneven Campaigns
Leading the pack in several key metrics is Tarik Skubal of the Detroit Tigers. Skubal tops the major leagues in ERA and ERA+, which speaks volumes about his effectiveness on the mound. His dominance is further underscored by leading the American League in strikeouts, FIP, and strikeout rate. With a record of 14-4 and having set a new career high in innings pitched, Skubal has been a bright spot in an otherwise lackluster season for the Tigers, who have a 44-56 record in games he doesn't start.
Another strong contender is Seth Lugo, who has showcased resilience and stamina, pitching a total of 166 2/3 innings with a commendable record of 14-7. Despite a recent downturn where he posted a 5.24 ERA over his last seven starts, Lugo's 3.02 ERA and 1.09 WHIP for the season highlight his overall consistency.
Rising Stars and Veterans Take Center Stage
Logan Gilbert of the Mariners has also made a strong case for Cy Young consideration. Gilbert boasts a stellar 2.96 ERA and leads the league in WHIP at 0.88. His durability is proven by being second only to Lugo in innings pitched. However, the Mariners' dramatic stumble since their ten-game lead in June has cast a shadow over Gilbert's outstanding performance.
On the other side of the spectrum, Corbin Burnes has faced a challenging month, recording a 9.00 ERA in his three starts. Nevertheless, his overall season remains solid with a 12-5 record, a 3.10 ERA, and 144 strikeouts in 153 2/3 innings.
Relievers Pushing the Envelope
In the bullpen, Emmanuel Clase has been virtually untouchable, converting 37 of 40 save opportunities. His minuscule 0.63 ERA and 0.66 WHIP, along with 49 strikeouts in 57 1/3 innings, make him a standout in relief pitching this season.
Framber Valdez, with a record of 13-5, a 3.20 ERA, and a 1.14 WHIP over 137 2/3 innings, has also turned in a series of strong performances. Consistency has been a hallmark of Valdez's season, earning him a deserved place in the Cy Young discussion.
Veterans and Newcomers Blend Excellence
Chris Sale continues to dazzle, leading the league in wins, strikeouts, FIP, strikeout rate, and FanGraphs' WAR. However, his placement outside the top ten in innings pitched might raise questions about his endurance over the season.
Logan Webb has been a workhorse, leading the league with 164 2/3 innings pitched while compiling an 11-8 record and a 3.17 ERA. Keeping pace in the innings battle, Webb’s durability could be a deciding factor in the Cy Young voting.
Not to be outdone, Zack Wheeler has put together an impressive season with a 12-5 record, a 2.72 ERA, a 0.98 WHIP, and 162 strikeouts in 148 2/3 innings. His controlling presence on the mound continues to instill confidence in his team's chances whenever he starts.
Pitchers on the Radar
Paul Skenes has emerged as a strong newcomer with a 7-2 record, an impressive 2.30 ERA, and 121 strikeouts in 98 innings, achieving a 4.0 WAR. Meanwhile, Hunter Greene’s 9-4 record, 2.83 ERA, and 162 strikeouts in 143 1/3 innings are diluted by his league-leading hit batsmen and an ongoing elbow injury.
Elsewhere, Ronel Blanco turned heads with a no-hitter in his first outing. Blanco has compiled a 9-6 record with a 2.89 ERA and 130 strikeouts in 134 innings since then. Similarly, Reynaldo López quietly put together a stellar season with a 2.06 ERA in 104 2/3 innings.
As the season winds down, the Cy Young race provides one of the most compelling narratives, showcasing both the resilience of seasoned veterans and the emergence of promising young talent. With each start, these pitchers aim to solidify their case and etch their names into baseball history.