Zack Wheeler's Cy Young Case Gathers Momentum
The debate over the National League Cy Young Award is heating up, and it seems like the competition has been narrowed down to two elite pitchers: Zack Wheeler of the Philadelphia Phillies and Chris Sale of the Atlanta Braves. Bryce Harper is one of the staunchest advocates for his teammate, Wheeler, and he is not mincing words about his belief that Wheeler deserves to take home the coveted trophy.
"Yeah, I mean, he's Cy Young. It's not even a question now, just the way he's kind of throwing, the way he's been doing it all year long. He deserves it -- he deserved it three years ago, or two years ago, too, and they robbed him of it, so he deserves it this year, no doubt," Harper passionately remarked.
A Season to Remember
Wheeler's recent performance has been nothing short of stellar, particularly showcased in his outing against the Milwaukee Brewers. In a game that solidified his reputation, Wheeler pitched seven strong innings, allowing just one run on four hits. His control was evident as he struck out six of the 24 batters he faced, achieving an impressive feat against a formidable lineup.
More importantly, Wheeler’s consistent excellence has brought his ERA down to 2.56, placing him in the upper echelon of National League pitchers. Notably, he stands second in the league in innings pitched, ERA among qualified pitchers, Wins Above Replacement (WAR), and generic pitcher wins. Wheeler’s endurance over the season is underscored by his 14 more frames pitched compared to his rival, Chris Sale.
The Case for Chris Sale
However, Wheeler isn't the only ace in the race. Chris Sale from the Atlanta Braves has mounted a formidable case for himself, boasting both a lower ERA and a higher WAR than Wheeler. Sale's statistical edge in these key areas cannot be ignored, making the final decision for voters incredibly difficult.
Unwavering Support
Regardless, Wheeler's merit extends beyond mere numbers, as highlighted by sports analyst Matt Snyder. "He's the ace of the best team in the league and has helped hold that rotation up through injuries and inconsistency here in the last two months," Snyder observed. Wheeler's tenacity and ability to anchor his team through turbulent times have made him indispensable to the Phillies, strengthening his claim to the Cy Young Award.
Indeed, Wheeler has been a beacon of resilience and skill, maintaining his form and effectiveness despite a season marred by injuries and inconsistencies within his team's rotation. His impact has not only been statistical but also deeply psychological for a team aspiring for greatness. Wheeler's durability and unwavering presence on the mound have fostered a sense of stability and confidence among his teammates.
A History of Close Calls
This isn't the first time Wheeler has been in the Cy Young conversation. In 2021, he came tantalizingly close to winning, finishing just 10 points behind Corbin Burnes. This near-miss has only fueled the push for his recognition this year, with supporters like Harper voicing their discontent over that previous outcome.
The 2023 race, thus, is not merely about statistical supremacy but also about narrative and impact. Wheeler’s story of perseverance and critical performances at crucial junctures provide a compelling backdrop for his Cy Young candidacy.
As the baseball world watches with bated breath, the ultimate decision remains in the hands of the voters. Will it be Chris Sale with his superior statistics, or will Zack Wheeler's blend of numbers, narrative, and resilience earn him the honor he narrowly missed two years ago? The answer will come soon, but one thing is clear: Wheeler has made an indelible mark on this season, and his quest for the Cy Young is backed by strong performances and unwavering support.