While Los Angeles’ Clayton Kershaw has essentially pitched his way to becoming the clear front-runner for the Cy Young Award in the National League, it appears that Detroit’s Max Scherzer is slowly, but surely becoming an almost virtual lock for the American League honors.
The following is a list of the Top 5 pitchers who should be considered for the distinction of being named the American League’s best pitcher for the 2013 season. Rankings are based on the individual performance of the pitcher in relation to his competition and team performance skill level, relative skill level, and his value to his team compared to those across the league.
Although only five pitchers are ranked in this respective list, that is not to discount the fact that a number of other pitchers have enjoyed much success this season, but have not quite demonstrated the criterion representative of a definitive Cy Young caliber season.
Baltimore’s Chris Tillman has led the Orioles’ charge for a potential postseason run, ranking second in the league in wins (15), but has not shown the consistency and dominance that would render him a serious consideration for the honor.
Also falling short of the list is Oakland’s Bartolo Colon, who despite being amongst the league leaders in wins and ERA, has fallen off the pace with an inconsistent month of August and an overreliance on his fastball, which has contributed to his high BAA of .273.
Without further adieu, here are the Top 5 pitchers who should be considered the front-runners for the American League Cy Young Award with less than one month remaining in the 2013 season.
