Chris Sale and Tarik Skubal Celebrate First Cy Young Awards
In a historic moment for baseball, Chris Sale and Tarik Skubal clinched their first Cy Young Awards on Wednesday, forever linking the two standout left-handers. Skubal, a unanimous selection for the American League, shone in his season with the Detroit Tigers, achieving an impressive 18-4 record and leading in strikeouts with 228. Meanwhile, Sale, marking a remarkable return to form with the Atlanta Braves after battling injuries, was awarded the National League honor with an 18-3 record, topping the league with 225 strikeouts and a 2.38 ERA.
“This award means a lot. It’s a special night,” Sale said, expressing gratitude towards those who supported him during his difficult comeback journey. Skubal echoed this sentiment, acknowledging the significance of winning alongside his idol, Sale, and cherished sharing the triple crown of wins, strikeouts, and ERA between both leagues.
The awards reflect a historic achievement, as it is the first time since 2011 that pitchers from both leagues have captured the pitching triple crown concurrently. Sale’s selection marks the eighth Cy Young Award for the Braves, while the Tigers now celebrate their sixth such honor.
In the National League voting, Sale received 26 first-place votes, with Philadelphia’s Zack Wheeler taking the remaining four. Skubal’s road to success included overcoming Tommy John surgery, and he ended his season on a high note, boasting a 6-0 finish in his last nine games.
Both pitchers have established themselves as formidable forces in Major League Baseball, and their awards serve as a testament to their hard work, perseverance, and dedication to the sport.
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