Introduction

The 2024 MLB season has been nothing short of spectacular, with thrilling performances, breakout stars, and intense competition. As the season progresses, fans and analysts alike are debating who will take home the coveted awards at the end of the year. One of the most intriguing discussions centers around the NL Cy Young Award, given annually to the best pitcher in the National League. Among the contenders, Cincinnati Reds' pitcher Hunter Greene has emerged as a standout candidate. This article will delve into Greene's performance, compare him to other top pitchers, and assess his chances of winning the NL Cy Young Award.

The Rise of Hunter Greene

Hunter Greene's journey to becoming one of the top pitchers in MLB has been marked by both promise and perseverance. Drafted second overall by the Cincinnati Reds in 2017, Greene was known for his blistering fastball, which regularly touches 100 mph. However, his path to the majors was not without obstacles. After undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2019, Greene spent significant time rehabilitating and refining his skills.

Fast forward to 2024, and Greene has become a linchpin in the Reds' rotation. His performances this season have been exceptional, marked by impressive stats that place him among the league's elite pitchers. In the span from July 6th onward, Greene pitched 33 innings, allowed just 10 hits, and struck out 40 batters, showcasing his dominance on the mound?7†source?.

Greene's Stats: A Closer Look

Greene's season statistics further underscore his potential as a Cy Young contender:

• ERA (Earned Run Average): Greene boasts a commendable ERA of 2.83, placing him third among National League pitchers?7†source?.
• Strikeouts: With 149 strikeouts, Greene ranks fourth in the NL, demonstrating his ability to overpower hitters?7†source?.
• Wins Above Replacement (WAR): Greene leads the league in WAR, an advanced metric that evaluates a player's overall contributions to their team's success?7†source?.

These stats highlight Greene's effectiveness and his critical role in the Reds' pitching staff.

Comparing Contenders: Greene vs. The Field

While Hunter Greene's numbers are impressive, the NL Cy Young race is fiercely competitive, with several pitchers making strong cases for the award. Let's compare Greene to some of the top contenders:

Chris Sale (Atlanta Braves)

• ERA: 2.71
• Strikeouts: N/A
• Quality Starts: 16

Chris Sale, a perennial Cy Young candidate, has been a model of consistency. His low ERA and high number of quality starts (16) make him a formidable opponent?7†source?.

Zack Wheeler (Philadelphia Phillies)

• ERA: 2.77
• Strikeouts: N/A
• Quality Starts: 16

Zack Wheeler has been a cornerstone of the Phillies' rotation, with numbers similar to Sale's. His performance has been crucial in the Phillies' quest for postseason success?7†source?.

Blake Snell (San Diego Padres)

• ERA: N/A
• Strikeouts: N/A

Blake Snell, though not leading in ERA, has been one of the most effective pitchers in the latter half of the season. His resurgence makes him a dark horse candidate for the Cy Young Award?7†source?.

The Importance of Quality Starts

A critical factor in evaluating pitchers is the number of quality starts they deliver. A quality start is defined as pitching at least six innings while allowing three or fewer earned runs. This metric is vital as it indicates a pitcher's ability to consistently give their team a chance to win.

• Hunter Greene: 11 quality starts
• Chris Sale: 16 quality starts
• Zack Wheeler: 16 quality starts

While Greene's number of quality starts lags behind Sale and Wheeler, his dominance in strikeouts and WAR positions him well for Cy Young consideration?7†source?.

Challenges and Considerations

Despite Greene's impressive credentials, several challenges could impact his Cy Young candidacy:

1. Team Performance: The Cincinnati Reds' overall performance will play a role in Greene's Cy Young chances. Historically, pitchers from playoff-bound teams have a higher likelihood of winning the award?7†source?.

2. Voter Preferences: Voter tendencies can influence Cy Young outcomes. Pitchers with sustained success throughout the season, rather than those who excel in shorter periods, often gain favor?7†source?.

3. Competition: The presence of other strong candidates like Sale and Wheeler means Greene must continue his exceptional form to stay in contention?7†source?.

Hunter Greene's Path Forward

For Hunter Greene to solidify his candidacy for the NL Cy Young, he must maintain his high level of performance through the remainder of the season. Key areas of focus include:

• Reducing Walks: Greene's current rate of walking one batter every 2.5 innings is an area for improvement?7†source?. Lowering his walk rate would enhance his overall effectiveness.

• Increasing Quality Starts: Delivering more quality starts will bolster Greene's resume and demonstrate his consistency as a top-tier pitcher?7†source?.

• Team Success: A strong finish by the Reds could elevate Greene's profile and increase his chances of garnering votes?7†source?.

The Verdict: Will Hunter Greene Win the NL Cy Young?

As of August 5, 2024, Hunter Greene's odds of winning the NL Cy Young Award are promising, yet uncertain. His statistical achievements, particularly in WAR and strikeouts, make a compelling case for his candidacy?7†source?. However, factors such as team performance and competition from other elite pitchers will ultimately shape the outcome.

If Greene continues his stellar performances and the Reds make a push towards the postseason, he could very well find himself lifting the Cy Young Award at the end of the year. His journey thus far has been remarkable, and the potential for further greatness remains on the horizon.

Conclusion

Hunter Greene's rise in the 2024 MLB season has been nothing short of spectacular. His ability to dominate on the mound, coupled with his competitive stats, positions him as a strong contender for the NL Cy Young Award. As the season progresses, Greene's continued excellence will be crucial in determining his place among baseball's elite pitchers. Whether he ultimately wins the award remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Hunter Greene is a pitcher to watch, both now and in the future.