Unquestionably, Gerrit Cole clinched the 2023 Cy Young Award in the American League. The Baseball Writers Association of America made the exciting announcement of the Yankee ace’s victory. Former Minnesota right-hander Sonny Gray claimed the runner-up position, with Toronto’s Kevin Gausman securing third place.
The outcome wasn’t particularly suspenseful, as Cole received all 30 first-place votes. Despite being a six-time All-Star and two-time ERA champion, this marks his inaugural Cy Young win. No AL pitcher surpassed Cole’s impressive 209 innings, and he led Junior Circuit pitchers (with a minimum of 150 innings) with a 2.63 ERA. He also ranked sixth among that group with a 27% strikeout rate, trailing only Gausman and Pablo López with 222 punchouts.
Cole’s overall dominance made him a clear choice as the AL’s best pitcher in the eyes of voters. This marks his sixth top five finish and the third time as a finalist, previously finishing as a runner-up twice. This first Cy Young win could significantly bolster his eventual Hall of Fame case.
For now, the 33-year-old will strive to replicate this year’s success in the hopes of leading the Yankees back to the postseason. Despite Cole’s outstanding performance, New York struggled midseason and barely finished above .500. Cole is slated to remain in the Bronx for at least one more year, entering year five of a nine-year, $324MM free agent contract, with the ability to opt out after next season.
Gray garnered 20 second-place votes, earning his highest-ever Cy Young finish. This accolade arrives at an opportune time for the three-time All-Star, who recently became a free agent. Gausman received seven second-place votes and was the most common selection for third place. Stray second-place votes went to Luis Castillo and Zach Eflin, while Baltimore’s Kyle Bradish narrowly surpassed that duo for fourth in overall balloting.
Other recipients of at least one vote include: López, George Kirby, Framber Valdez, Chris Bassitt, Félix Bautista, and Chris Martin. The complete results can be found on the BBWAA website.
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