The 2024 MLB season has brought unexpected twists, particularly with the rise of two pitchers to become current Cy Young Award favorites. Luis Gil of the New York Yankees and Ranger Suárez of the Philadelphia Phillies have delivered outstanding performances. Initially flying under the radar, they now lead the race for the prestigious award in their respective leagues.
The Current Favorites in Each League’s Cy Young Race
Luis Gil: A Revelation for the Yankees
Luis Gil has been nothing short of a revelation for the Yankees this season. Initially seen as a promising but unproven talent, Gil’s performance in 2024 has catapulted him into the spotlight. As of mid-June, Gil boasts an 8-1 record with a stellar 2.04 ERA. He has struck out 90 batters over 75 innings pitched. His WHIP stands at an impressive 0.933, making him one of the most formidable pitchers in the American League.
Luis Gil turns in another fantastic start last night lowering his ERA to 1.99
8 IP
2 H
1 ER
9 Ks
2 BB
pic.twitter.com/2McTNSJ3a5— Overdue Sports (@OverdueSports) May 30, 2024
Gil’s journey to Cy Young contention is a story of perseverance and hard work. After spending much of the previous seasons bouncing between the minors and the majors, he seized the opportunity to solidify his place in the Yankees rotation following an injury to ace Gerrit Cole. His breakout month of May, where he went 6-0 with a 0.70 ERA, set the tone for his outstanding season. Gil’s ability to command his pitches and maintain composure on the mound has drawn praise from teammates and opponents alike.
Ranger Suárez: The Unexpected Ace of the Phillies
In the National League, Ranger Suárez has emerged as a frontrunner for the Cy Young Award. Suárez, who had primarily been used as a reliever and spot starter in previous years, has transitioned seamlessly into the role of the Phillies’ ace. His current statistics reflect his dominance: a 10-1 record, a 1.81 ERA, and 85 strikeouts over 79 2/3 innings pitched. His WHIP is an equally impressive 0.854, underscoring his effectiveness in limiting baserunners and controlling the game.
2024 Phillies Baseball Reference WAR Leaderboard:
2.8 Ranger Suarez
2.5 Bryce Harper
2.4 Zack Wheeler
1.9 Edmundo Sosa
1.7 Brandon Marsh
1.6 Aaron Nola
1.6 Trea Turner
1.6 Bryson Stott
1.3 Alec Bohm
1.3 Matt Strahm
1.2 Jeff Hoffman
1.2 J.T. Realmuto
1.2 Kyle Schwarber
0.8… pic.twitter.com/HxgAIfPonC— Phillies Tailgate (@PhilsTailgate) June 13, 2024
Suárez’s rise to prominence has been one of the most compelling stories of the season. Few would have predicted that he would become the Phillies’ go-to starter. Yet his performances have consistently been among the best in the league. Suárez’s command and pitch variety have been key to his success, as he has baffled hitters with a mix of fastballs, sliders, and changeups. His ability to step up in crucial moments has been instrumental in the Phillies’ push to the top of the NL standings.
Leading Their Teams to Success
Both Gil and Suárez have played pivotal roles in their teams’ successes this season. The Yankees, buoyed by Gil’s dominant performances, have climbed to the top of the AL East standings. His consistency and ability to deliver in high-pressure situations have been crucial for a team that has dealt with significant injuries to key players. Gil’s contributions have both stabilized the Yankees’ rotation and provided a morale boost, showing that the team’s depth can carry them through tough stretches.
Similarly, Suárez’s impact on the Phillies cannot be overstated. His emergence as an ace on a team that already had more than one has allowed the Phils to navigate the competitive NL East with confidence. Suárez’s steady hand has anchored the Phillies’ rotation, giving them a reliable arm to counteract the potent offenses of their division rivals. His performances have often set the tone for the team’s success, and his leadership on the mound has inspired his teammates to elevate their play.
The Last Word
The 2024 Cy Young race in both leagues is a testament to the unpredictability and excitement of baseball. Luis Gil and Ranger Suárez have risen from relative obscurity to dominate on the mound, showcasing their skills and resilience. Their journeys from dark horses to Cy Young favorites highlight the beauty of the sport, where hard work and talent can converge to create unforgettable seasons. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on these two pitchers. If they can maintain their extraordinary performances, they can lead their teams to even greater heights.
Photo Credit: © Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
