2019 AL Cy Young Finalists: Who was the best pitcher in the AL?
Who wins the 2019 AL Cy Young?
Tampa Bay Rays Charlie Morton
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2019 stats: 16-6 in 33 starts, 3.05 ERA, 240 strikeouts, 1.084 WHIP, 5.0 WAR
Morton had a surprisingly good season this year. He set career highs in ERA at 3.05, strikeouts with 240 and ERA+ at 146. All at the age of 35 in his 12th season. He may not have the flashy strikeout numbers, but he was solid all season long for a competitive Tampa Bay Rays team.
He had some pretty highly ranked numbers in the AL as well. He ranked 7th in the AL with a 5.0 WAR, 3rd in ERA, tied for 5th in wins, 9th in innings pitched at 194 2/3 and 3rd in ERA+. He led the Rays to a Wild Card win and took the Astros to 5 games, pitching exceptionally well. He garnered only his 2nd All-Star award and will finish in the top three in this Cy Young race.
Unfortunately with the seasons both Verlander and Cole had, he will finish third. The other two were simply more dominant, despite the great season from Morton. He has nothing to hang his head over though.
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Now for my pick to win the AL Cy Young. Without question, Gerrit Cole will be your 2019 AL Cy Young award winner. He had the best season, led in ERA and struck out an insane amount of batters. He is the most deserving and will absolutely walk away with the hardware.