NL Cy Young 2025: Early Predictions & Top Contenders

The NL Cy Young Award is one of the most prestigious awards in baseball, honoring the best pitcher in the National League each year. Predicting who might win the award in 2025 is a fun exercise, blending current performance, potential growth, and team dynamics. Let’s dive into some early predictions and top contenders for the NL Cy Young in 2025.

Understanding the Cy Young Award

Before we delve into the potential candidates, it's essential to understand the criteria that voters typically consider. The Cy Young Award isn't just about wins and losses; it's a holistic evaluation of a pitcher's performance. Key factors include:

• Earned Run Average (ERA): A measure of how many earned runs a pitcher allows per nine innings.
• Strikeouts (K): A reflection of a pitcher's ability to dominate hitters.
• Walks and Hits per Inning Pitched (WHIP): A ratio of walks and hits allowed per inning, indicating a pitcher's control and ability to limit base runners.
• Innings Pitched (IP): Shows a pitcher’s durability and ability to consistently go deep into games.
• Quality Starts (QS): A game in which a pitcher throws at least six innings and allows three or fewer earned runs.
• Advanced Metrics: Such as FIP (Fielding Independent Pitching) and WAR (Wins Above Replacement) which provide a more nuanced view of a pitcher's value.

Voters also consider a pitcher's overall impact on their team, their consistency throughout the season, and their performance in crucial games. With these factors in mind, let’s explore some of the early contenders for the 2025 NL Cy Young Award.

Top Contenders for the 2025 NL Cy Young

Identifying potential Cy Young candidates requires a blend of analyzing current performance, projecting future growth, and considering team context. Here are some pitchers who could be in the mix for the 2025 NL Cy Young Award:

1. Spencer Strider (Atlanta Braves)

Spencer Strider has quickly become one of the most dominant pitchers in baseball. With an explosive fastball and a wipeout slider, Strider has the potential to consistently rack up strikeouts and post elite numbers. His aggressive approach on the mound and ability to miss bats make him a formidable opponent for any hitter.

Why he could win: Strider's strikeout potential is unmatched, and if he can improve his command and consistency, he could easily be a Cy Young frontrunner. Playing for a competitive Braves team also increases his chances, as wins and team success often influence voters.

2. Zac Gallen (Arizona Diamondbacks)

Zac Gallen has emerged as a reliable and consistent ace for the Diamondbacks. With excellent command and a diverse repertoire of pitches, Gallen consistently delivers quality starts and keeps his team in games. His ability to mix speeds and locate his pitches effectively makes him a tough matchup for hitters.

Why he could win: Gallen's consistency and ability to pitch deep into games give him a strong foundation for a Cy Young campaign. If the Diamondbacks continue to improve as a team, Gallen's win total could also boost his candidacy.

3. Corbin Burnes (TBD)

Corbin Burnes, known for his devastating cutter, has already won a Cy Young Award and has the potential to repeat. His ability to generate weak contact and miss bats makes him one of the most effective pitchers in the league.

Why he could win: Burnes has a proven track record of success, and if he lands in a favorable situation with a competitive team, he could easily contend for another Cy Young Award. His experience and elite stuff make him a perennial threat.

4. Walker Buehler (Los Angeles Dodgers)

Walker Buehler possesses the talent and pedigree to be a Cy Young contender. With a blazing fastball and a competitive spirit, Buehler thrives in high-pressure situations and consistently delivers quality performances. His ability to elevate his game in crucial moments makes him a valuable asset for the Dodgers.

Why he could win: If Buehler can return to his pre-injury form and stay healthy, he has the potential to be a dominant force in the NL. Playing for a perennial contender like the Dodgers also increases his visibility and chances of accumulating wins.

5. Jesus Luzardo (Miami Marlins)

Jesus Luzardo is a rising star with immense potential. With a combination of velocity, movement, and developing command, Luzardo has the tools to become a top-of-the-rotation starter. His ability to generate strikeouts and keep hitters off balance makes him an exciting prospect.

Why he could win: Luzardo's potential is undeniable, and if he can harness his raw talent and put together a full season of consistent performance, he could surprise many and contend for the Cy Young Award. A strong showing on a potentially improved Marlins team would further enhance his candidacy.

Dark Horse Candidates

While the above pitchers are the frontrunners, several other pitchers could emerge as contenders with a strong season. These dark horse candidates possess the talent and potential to surprise:

• Eury Perez (Miami Marlins): A young, hard-throwing right-hander with immense upside.
• Hunter Greene (Cincinnati Reds): Known for his electric fastball, Greene could break out with improved command.
• Joe Musgrove (San Diego Padres): A reliable veteran with a track record of success.
• Justin Steele (Chicago Cubs): Developing into a frontline starter with impressive consistency.

Factors Influencing the 2025 Cy Young Race

Several factors beyond individual performance can influence the Cy Young race:

• Team Performance: Pitchers on winning teams often receive more consideration from voters.
• Injury Luck: Staying healthy throughout the season is crucial for any pitcher's chances.
• Consistency: Sustained excellence over the course of the season is key to impressing voters.
• Narrative: A compelling storyline or comeback narrative can sometimes sway voters.

Conclusion

The race for the 2025 NL Cy Young Award is shaping up to be an exciting one, with a mix of established stars and rising talents vying for the prestigious honor. While it's impossible to predict the future with certainty, these early predictions provide a glimpse into the potential contenders and storylines to watch. As the season unfolds, be sure to keep an eye on these pitchers and their performance, as they could very well be the ones battling it out for the NL Cy Young Award in 2025.

For more insights into baseball awards and statistics, visit MLB.com. Good luck to all the pitchers!