In a historic moment for MLB, Tarik Skubal of the Detroit Tigers and Chris Sale of the Atlanta Braves claimed the 2024 Cy Young Awards after delivering remarkable Triple Crown seasons. Both pitchers led their leagues in wins, ERA, and strikeouts, marking only the fourth time in MLB history this feat has been achieved in both leagues simultaneously.
Skubal: The Tigers’ Ace
Skubal emerged as a force in the AL, going 18-4 with a league-best 2.39 ERA and 228 strikeouts across 192 innings. His dominance anchored a Tigers rotation thin on depth, propelling Detroit to an unexpected playoff run. Skubal’s October brilliance, including shutting down Houston in the Wild Card Series, cemented his reputation as a star.
Sale: A Legendary Comeback
Sale’s NL Cy Young is a testament to his resilience. After years of injuries, the 35-year-old rebounded with an 18-3 record, a 2.38 ERA, and 225 strikeouts in 177 2/3 innings. Joining Atlanta last winter, he became a cornerstone for the Braves, particularly after Spencer Strider’s injury. Sale’s Cy Young win adds to his NL Comeback Player of the Year award.
This recognition not only celebrates their incredible seasons but also reinforces their standing among MLB’s elite. Skubal is Detroit’s first winner since Max Scherzer (2013), while Sale is Atlanta’s first since Tom Glavine (1998). Both pitchers have etched their names in baseball lore.