As the Cy Young Award race heats up, Bryce Harper is vocal in his support for teammate Zack Wheeler
The discussion surrounding the National League Cy Young Award is intensifying, with opinions flooding in from all quarters. One significant voice in the mix is that of Bryce Harper, who is staunchly advocating for his teammate Zack Wheeler. Harper's endorsement is steadfast: "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."
Wheeler's Stellar Performance
Zack Wheeler's recent outing against the Milwaukee Brewers was a testament to his exceptional form this season. Wheeler pitched seven strong innings, conceding just one run on four hits. Throughout the game, he struck out six of the 24 batters he encountered, further solidifying his case for the Cy Young. This performance has brought his ERA down to an impressive 2.56.
Wheeler's consistent dominance on the mound positions him prominently in several key statistical categories within the National League. He stands second in innings pitched, ERA among qualified pitchers, Wins Above Replacement (WAR), and generic pitcher wins. These metrics not only underscore his durability but also his elite skill in navigating through opposing lineups.
Sale's Stiff Competition
However, the race is far from decided. Chris Sale of the Atlanta Braves emerges as a formidable contender for the prestigious award. Sale boasts a lower ERA and a higher WAR compared to Wheeler, highlighting his own exceptional season. Nevertheless, Wheeler has logged 14 more innings than Sale, a factor that underscores his endurance and resilience over the grueling baseball season.
Wheeler's performance this year continues to build on his high-caliber showing in previous seasons. This marks the second time Wheeler has finished in the top five of Cy Young voting. In 2021, he narrowly missed out on the award, losing to Corbin Burnes by a mere 10 points. This year's campaign, powered by unwavering support from his teammates and analysts alike, seeks to rewrite that narrative.
Support and Recognition
Sports analyst Matt Snyder also lends his support to Wheeler, acknowledging the pitcher’s pivotal role in the Philadelphia Phillies' rotation. "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 asserts. Indeed, Wheeler's presence has provided stability and top-tier performance amidst the Phillies' challenges, further cementing his credentials for the Cy Young.
Wheeler’s impact goes beyond basic statistics. He embodies resilience, durability, and a mastery of the craft that few in the league can replicate. His ability to consistently deliver under pressure scenarios and maintain form through the highs and lows of the season makes him a standout candidate. The combination of his impressive figures and qualitative strength highlights why many, including Harper and Snyder, see him as the deserving recipient of the award.
The Path Ahead
While the Cy Young Award race narrows down to Zack Wheeler and Chris Sale, the baseball world watches intently. Both pitchers have demonstrated excellence, each with unique strengths that elevate their respective teams. As the season draws to a close, the final decision will hinge on the culmination of performances, resilience, and perhaps a touch of narrative redemption for Wheeler.
In the end, regardless of the outcome, Wheeler's 2023 season remains a testament to his skill and tenacity. Whether or not he clinches the Cy Young Award, his contributions to the Phillies and the broader baseball community are undeniable. As debates continue and votes are cast, one certainty stands out: Zack Wheeler has once again proven himself as one of the premier pitchers in the National League.