Sale and Skubal Claim Cy Young Awards
In an unprecedented season of excellence, Chris Sale and Tarik Skubal have cemented their places in baseball history by clinching their first-ever Cy Young Awards. This accolade recognizes the two pitchers for their stellar performances throughout the season, marking a significant milestone in their respective careers.
Chris Sale's Resurgence
At 35 years old, Chris Sale's journey to the Cy Young award has been long and tumultuous, but ultimately rewarding. Having begun his Major League Baseball career as a first-round pick in 2010, Sale debuted as a reliever with the Chicago White Sox. As his career progressed, he made the pivotal transition from reliever to starting pitcher between 2012 to 2018—a period that saw him selected for seven consecutive All-Star games. His consistent performance averaged an impressive 14-8 win-loss record, a 2.91 ERA, and 240 strikeouts over 198 innings each season during this peak era.
Sale's path was not devoid of difficulties, as he underwent Tommy John surgery, which markedly limited his playtime. In 2021, he managed only nine starts, followed by a scant two starts in 2022. However, the 2023 season saw a robust return with 20 starts. His performance evidently caught the eyes of the Atlanta Braves, who successfully traded for his talents for the 2024 season.
Sale's dominance on the mound this past season with the Braves has now culminated in the much-deserved recognition of a Cy Young Award. This award highlights not only his resilience in overcoming past injuries but also his undying dedication to the sport.
Tarik Skubal: A Rising Star
While Sale's triumph speaks of redemption, Tarik Skubal's victory in claiming the Cy Young signifies the rise of a new star. Pitching for the Detroit Tigers, Skubal first made waves as a top prospect in 2020 and 2021. However, his budding career faced a setback when he underwent flexor tendon surgery in August 2022. Undeterred, Skubal returned stronger and more determined than ever.
The 2023 season saw Skubal achieve a commendable 7-3 win-loss record with a 2.80 ERA over 80 ⅓ innings, setting the stage for his breakout year in 2024. During the 2024 season, Skubal posted an exceptional 18-4 win-loss record and a striking 2.39 ERA. His stellar performance did not only end there; he also led the league in both strikeouts and Wins Above Replacement (WAR).
With an ERA+ of 170 in 2024, Skubal's dominance on the mound was unparalleled. Leading the American League in wins and ERA, his exceptional contributions have not gone unnoticed by the baseball community. This Cy Young award is a testament to his skill, perseverance, and potential for future greatness.
A Season for the Ages
The accolades for both Sale and Skubal come as no surprise to those who have followed their careers closely. Sale, now a seasoned veteran, and Skubal, an emerging force, have provided fans with thrilling performances that transcend simple statistics. Their journeys, filled with challenges and comebacks, add a narrative of determination and skill that enriches the history of the Cy Young Award itself.
As fans and analysts reflect on the 2024 MLB season, the feats of Chris Sale and Tarik Skubal stand out not only for the numbers but for their stories—stories of perseverance, transformation, and unwavering commitment to their craft. The Cy Young Awards are a fitting tribute to a spectacular season by two remarkable pitchers shaping the future of baseball.