The American League Cy Young Award race is a fascinating spectacle, and with the recent injury to Skubal, it's about to become even more intriguing. The question on everyone's mind is: Who will step up and claim the title? Let's dive into the key players and the factors that could shape this intense competition.
The Rise of Schlittler
Cam Schlittler has been a revelation this season. His impressive rookie year was followed by an even more outstanding 2026 campaign. With an ERA of 1.52 and WHIP of 0.87, Schlittler is leading the AL in these categories. What's truly remarkable is his ability to strike out batters while walking only nine in 47 1/3 innings. However, the real test for Schlittler will be maintaining this level of performance over a full season. If he can do so, he might just become the sixth pitcher to win a Cy Young before their third MLB season. Personally, I find it fascinating that Schlittler's success could redefine what it means to be a top pitcher, challenging the notion that strikeout numbers are the sole indicator of excellence.
Soriano's Regression?
The Angels' Andrew Heaney Soriano started the season with a bang, posting an ERA of 0.24 in his first six starts. This was the lowest ERA in a pitcher's first six starts since earned runs became official. However, his recent struggles, including allowing four homers and eight runs in nine innings, raise questions. While Soriano's splitter and knuckle curve are impressive, his lifetime ERA as a starting pitcher is 3.91. This season's FIP and expected ERA are higher than his current ERA, suggesting a potential regression. What makes this interesting is the possibility of a comeback, as Soriano's early dominance could be a sign of things to come.
Cease's Consistency
The Blue Jays' Justin Cease has been a consistent force, delivering a 3.05 ERA through seven starts. His whiff rate of 36.9% and strikeout rate of 33.7% are impressive, but Cease's inconsistency in the past due to free passes is a concern. While he has the potential to reach the Cy Young ceiling, his floor might be lower than expected. Cease's ability to maintain consistency despite the Blue Jays' injuries is a testament to his skill, and it will be fascinating to see if he can keep this up over a full season.
Fried's Consistency Without Strikeout Numbers
The Yankees' Michael King Fried is a master of consistency, with a 2.76 ERA and 151 ERA+ over 40 starts. His xERA of 2.32 is the best among AL pitchers with at least 100 batters faced this season. However, Fried's success might be at odds with recent Cy Young trends. Only one winner since 2009 didn't reach the 200-strikeout plateau or strike out more than a batter per inning. Fried's average of 7.3 strikeouts per nine innings in 2026 makes it challenging for him to reach 200 strikeouts. This raises an intriguing question: Can Fried win a Cy Young without gaudy strikeout numbers?
deGrom's Return
Jacob deGrom's return to form is a captivating development. At 37, deGrom is turning back the clock with a 2.01 ERA and 40 strikeouts in 31 1/3 innings. His ability to compete with the AL's young aces is a testament to his enduring talent. While deGrom's lack of volume due to injuries has raised questions about his Hall of Fame case, a third Cy Young could cement his place in Cooperstown. The broader implications of deGrom's performance are fascinating, as it challenges the notion that age is a barrier to excellence.
The Contenders and Beyond
While Schlittler, Soriano, Cease, Fried, and deGrom are the primary contenders, there are other names to watch. Gavin Williams, with a 2.61 ERA, is a rising star in Cleveland. His ability to maintain a low ERA despite a lower strikeout rate is impressive. Williams' performance over the past year, including a 31% strikeout rate, makes him a dark horse in the Cy Young race. The competition is fierce, and the journey to the award is filled with twists and turns, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
In conclusion, the AL Cy Young Award race is a testament to the unpredictability and excitement of baseball. With Skubal's injury creating an opening, the competition is wide open. The key players and their unique journeys make this race a captivating spectacle. As the season unfolds, the battle for the award will be a reflection of the sport's ever-evolving nature, challenging our perceptions of what it means to be a top pitcher.
