MLB Awards Update: Paul Skenes is the Front-Runner for the NL Cy Young Amid Wheeler's Absence
With Zack Wheeler sidelined, Paul Skenes emerges as the favorite for the NL Cy Young Award, but Cristopher Sánchez remains a strong contender.
One significant development in Major League Baseball recently involved Philadelphia Phillies ace Zack Wheeler. He experienced a blood clot in his shoulder, which has since been removed, leaving his return uncertain. While Wheeler’s health is the primary concern, there’s also strong interest in how this affects the NL Cy Young race.
Wheeler has been in close competition with Paul Skenes of the Pittsburgh Pirates throughout the season. As of now, Wheeler leads in strikeouts and WHIP and ranks high in ERA and WAR. However, with his potential absences looming due to this injury, the focus turns to Skenes, who currently sits as the frontrunner.
The latest odds reflect Wheeler’s injury, propelling Skenes ahead, while Cristopher Sánchez, Wheeler’s likely replacement, offers strong competition as well.
Current Leading Candidates for the NL Cy Young:
- Paul Skenes, -360
- Cristopher Sánchez, +240
- Matthew Boyd, +4500
- Freddy Peralta, +6500
- Logan Webb, +8000
Performance Comparison:
- Paul Skenes: 7-9, 2.16 ERA, 195 ERA+, 0.96 WHIP, 174 strikeouts.
- Cristopher Sánchez: 11-4, 2.46 ERA, 181 ERA+, 1.10 WHIP, 169 strikeouts.
Skenes is leading the charge in an award that typically highlights individual achievement over team performance, making him a compelling pick as the season draws to a close.
