MLB Milestones: deGrom joins shortlist of pitchers to win consecutive Cy Young awards

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 11: Jacob deGrom #48 of the New York Mets looks on against the Miami Marlins at Citi Field on May 11, 2019 in New York City. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 11: Jacob deGrom #48 of the New York Mets looks on against the Miami Marlins at Citi Field on May 11, 2019 in New York City. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images)
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(Photo by Wally Skalij/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)
(Photo by Wally Skalij/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

Consecutive Cy Young Awards Shortlist

Clayton Kershaw (2013-14)

There’s no question that Clayton Kershaw belongs on the same pedestal many experts and analysts place the likes of Sandy Koufax and Pedro Martinez in. He’s not a fireballer and isn’t necessarily the most intimidating pitcher, he is, however, the true definition of a pitcher. His repertoire of pitches and how well he delivers him has made him one of the most unhittable regular season pitchers in the history of the game.

In 12 big league seasons, Kershaw has posted an ERA over 3 only twice. In all, his career ERA is a stellar 2.44. In the history of the game, among all starting pitchers with a minimum 2000 IP, Kershaw is one of 19 pitchers to feature an 2.44 career ERA or lower.

Not only that, as mentioned before, he is only one of 10 pitchers in MLB history to ever win a Cy Young Award and an MVP in the same season. He accomplished the feat in 2014 when he pitched to a 21-3 record with a 1.77 ERA an a 1.81 FIP.

Now, I’m sure many of you will retort by bringing to attention his postseason performance. While I agree that he is a completely different pitcher in postseason play, so are many of the other pitchers on this list. The fact of the matter is, we’re currently seeing one of the all-time greats. Enjoy it while you can.