Chris Sale wins NL Cy Young in 2024, solidifying his place in baseball history with an awe-inspiring season for the Atlanta Braves. Sale, a 35-year-old pitcher, proved his dominance by leading the National League in wins, ERA, and strikeouts, earning him the prestigious Triple Crown in pitching.
As PBC, your go-to source for the latest in entertainment and celebrity news, I’ll guide you through the milestones of Sale’s incredible comeback and his contribution to the Braves. Let’s dive into how this remarkable athlete reclaimed his legacy.
Who is Chris Sale and Why Did He Win the 2024 NL Cy Young Award?
Chris Sale’s journey to the 2024 NL Cy Young Award is a story of resilience. After years plagued by injuries, including Tommy John surgery, Sale returned to peak form with the Atlanta Braves. His unorthodox sidearm delivery and dominant slider left batters helpless throughout the season.
The Cy Young Award, often regarded as the pinnacle of pitching excellence, recognizes Sale’s extraordinary accomplishments. He not only delivered on the mound but also led the Braves to a late-season playoff push, proving why he deserved this honor.
Key Achievements Leading to the Award: Sale finished the season with an 18-3 record, a 2.38 ERA, and 225 strikeouts. These numbers earned him the National League pitching Triple Crown, a rare feat last achieved in a full season by Clayton Kershaw in 2011.
Chris Sale’s Dominant 2024 Season
Chris Sale didn’t just have a good year—he had a career-defining one. His stats reflect a player who reclaimed his former glory, mirroring the peak years of his time with the White Sox and Red Sox.
Breaking Down Sale’s Triple Crown Achievement
Winning the Triple Crown in pitching isn’t easy. Sale led the National League in three major categories:
- Wins: 18
- ERA: 2.38
- Strikeouts: 225
Additionally, his ERA+ and strikeout rate (32.1%) were among the best in the league, solidifying his dominance.
Comparisons to Other MLB Pitchers in 2024: Sale outperformed stars like Zack Wheeler and Tarik Skubal, proving he’s not just back but better than ever.
The Journey Back: Chris Sale’s Injury History and Recovery
Sale’s rise in 2024 wasn’t without its challenges. From 2019 to 2023, injuries limited his starts, and many doubted his ability to return to form.
Key Injuries and Setbacks: Sale underwent Tommy John surgery in 2020 and dealt with various other injuries. These setbacks kept him from playing consistently, forcing him to miss crucial games for years.
How Health Fueled His Comeback: With the Braves’ support, Sale focused on recovery. His 2024 season was a testament to what proper health and perseverance can achieve.
The Role of the Atlanta Braves in Chris Sale’s Success
The Braves took a chance on Sale, acquiring him in an offseason trade. That gamble paid off.
Team Support and Contributions: The Braves provided the infrastructure Sale needed, from top-notch training staff to a supportive clubhouse atmosphere. Their belief in him translated to his on-field success.
Sale’s Impact on the Braves’ Playoff Push: Sale’s 1.93 ERA in his last 14 starts was critical as the Braves secured a wild-card spot on the final day of the season.
What Makes Chris Sale’s Pitching Style Unique?
Sale’s success lies in his signature sidearm delivery and a nearly unhittable slider.
Analysis of His Fastball and Slider: Sale’s fastball averaged 94.8 mph, while batters hit just .171 against his slider. These tools made him a nightmare for hitters and a key player for the Braves.
How Does Chris Sale Compare to Past Cy Young Winners?
Sale’s performance in 2024 places him among legends like Tom Glavine and Clayton Kershaw.
Breaking Braves Records: Sale’s ERA was the lowest for a Braves left-hander in the expansion era, further cementing his legacy.
The Significance of the Triple Crown in Baseball
What is the Triple Crown in Pitching?
The Triple Crown honors pitchers who lead their league in wins, ERA, and strikeouts. It’s a rare achievement, reflecting unmatched dominance.
Previous Triple Crown Winners
Pitchers like Justin Verlander and Clayton Kershaw have achieved this milestone, but Sale’s resurgence makes his feat even more remarkable.
Lessons from Chris Sale’s Resurgence
Key Takeaways for Athletes: Sale’s journey is a reminder that persistence and proper recovery can lead to great things, even after years of setbacks.
What Fans Can Learn: Fans of the Braves and baseball at large can take pride in witnessing one of the greatest comebacks in the sport’s history.
FAQs About Chris Sale and the 2024 NL Cy Young Award
Why Did Chris Sale Miss the Playoffs?
Back spasms forced him to sit out crucial games.
What’s Next for Chris Sale and the Braves?
Sale aims to build on his success in 2025, with the Braves looking to capitalize on his talent.
How Did Sale’s Stats Compare to Zack Wheeler’s?
While Wheeler had a strong season, Sale’s dominance in wins, ERA, and strikeouts secured his Cy Young victory.
Conclusion
Chris Sale’s triumphant return in 2024 and his NL Cy Young Award win exemplify resilience and excellence. Let me know your thoughts, share this article, and check out more updates at Penn Book Center.
