The debate over who should win the National League Cy Young Award is heating up, with opinions flooding in from all corners. Among the most vocal advocates is Bryce Harper, who passionately supports his teammate Zack Wheeler for the coveted award. "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 proclaimed.
Wheeler's Stellar Season
Zack Wheeler's recent outing against the Milwaukee Brewers was a testament to his extraordinary season. Pitching seven innings and yielding just one run on four hits, Wheeler showcased his dominance on the mound. He struck out six of the 24 batters he faced, lowering his ERA to an impressive 2.56.
Wheeler's statistical accomplishments are a sight to behold. He ranks second in the National League in several key pitching categories, including innings pitched, ERA among qualified pitchers, Wins Above Replacement (WAR), and generic pitcher wins. Despite facing stiff competition from seasoned pitchers, Wheeler has remained a cornerstone for the Phillies, leading their rotation and providing much-needed stability.
The Contenders
Chris Sale of the Atlanta Braves stands as a formidable competitor in the Cy Young race. Sale's performance boasts a lower ERA and a higher WAR than Wheeler's, making a compelling case for his own consideration. However, Wheeler has the edge in durability, having thrown 14 more frames than Sale this season. This durability showcases Wheeler's resilience and ability to shoulder a heavy workload, attributes highly valued in the race for the Cy Young Award.
Previous Close Calls
This year marks Wheeler's second time finishing in the top five of Cy Young voting. In 2021, Wheeler narrowly missed out on the award, losing to Corbin Burnes by just 10 points. This close call adds another layer to Wheeler's narrative, highlighting his consistent excellence over the years and making his case for the award even stronger this season.
Endorsements and Expert Opinions
Support for Wheeler doesn't stop with Harper. Sports analyst Matt Snyder also backs Wheeler, emphasizing his vital role in the Phillies' success. "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 remarked. Wheeler's impact goes beyond his stats; his presence and performance have been crucial for a team that has faced its share of hurdles throughout the season.
Consistency and Durability
Wheeler is lauded for his resilience and durability on the mound, qualities that are essential for any pitcher vying for the Cy Young Award. Despite dealing with the pressures and challenges of a long MLB season, Wheeler has maintained a high level of performance, making him a reliable force for the Phillies. His skill and tenacity not only anchor the rotation but also inspire confidence in his teammates and fans alike.
As the 2023 National League Cy Young Award race narrows down to Zack Wheeler and Chris Sale, the discussion intensifies. While both pitchers have had remarkable seasons, Wheeler's combination of statistical achievements, resilience, and crucial role in his team's success makes a compelling case for him to finally clinch the award. The coming weeks will reveal whether Wheeler's stellar season will be enough to earn him the accolade he narrowly missed in 2021.