Predicting The 2025 AL & NL Cy Young: Can Paul Skenes Overcome A Poor Winning Percentage?

3 min read Post on Jun 12, 2025

Predicting the 2025 AL & NL Cy Young: Can Paul Skenes Overcome a Poor Winning Percentage?

The 2024 MLB season is still underway, but baseball fans and analysts are already looking ahead to 2025 and speculating about potential Cy Young Award winners. One name consistently popping up in these discussions is Pittsburgh Pirates pitching phenom, Paul Skenes. But a potential hurdle stands in his way: a potentially low win-loss record. Can dazzling individual statistics overcome a team's overall struggles? Let's dive into the predictions.

The Skenes Phenomenon: Raw Talent and High Expectations

Skenes, the number one overall pick in the 2023 MLB Draft, has already generated significant buzz. His blazing fastball and devastating breaking pitches have captivated scouts and fans alike. While his early MLB career is still unfolding, his potential is undeniable. He's projected to dominate, boasting strikeout numbers likely to rival some of the game's all-time greats. His arsenal is simply breathtaking, a combination of power and precision rarely seen in young pitchers. His performance will likely center the conversations about future Cy Young contenders for years to come.

However, the Pirates are currently undergoing a rebuilding phase. This means that even with Skenes’ exceptional pitching, the team's overall winning percentage might remain low in 2025. This raises a crucial question: Can a pitcher with a stellar ERA, impressive strikeout totals, and an overwhelming WHIP win the Cy Young Award with a sub-.500 win-loss record?

Historical Precedents: Winning Percentage and Cy Young Awards

Historically, a strong winning percentage has often been a factor in Cy Young voting. While not a strict requirement, pitchers with significantly more wins tend to have an edge. However, there have been instances where exceptional individual performance has overshadowed a less-than-stellar team record. For example, [Insert example of a pitcher who won Cy Young with a low win percentage – needs fact-checking and citation]. This shows that while wins are important, they aren't the sole determinant.

This is crucial context to understand the upcoming 2025 Cy Young race, and to understand Skenes's projected path.

2025 AL Cy Young Predictions: Beyond Skenes

Looking at the American League, several other pitchers are likely to contend for the award. Players like [mention a few AL pitchers and their strengths - needs up-to-date research]. The competition will be fierce, and Skenes will need to be truly exceptional to claim the prize.

2025 NL Cy Young Predictions: Skenes's Competition

In the National League, Skenes will face a similar challenge. While he's projected to lead the pack, established stars like [mention a few NL pitchers and their strengths - needs up-to-date research] will be vying for the award. The NL is known for its pitching talent and competitive balance; it'll be a very close race.

The Verdict: Can Skenes Overcome the Odds?

While a low win-loss record could hurt Skenes’ chances, his sheer dominance on the mound – potentially leading the league in ERA, strikeouts, and WHIP – could easily sway voters. If he demonstrates the kind of overpowering performances projected, his raw talent and statistical achievements might be enough to overcome a less-than-stellar team record. Ultimately, the 2025 Cy Young Award race in both leagues promises to be a thrilling one, with Skenes potentially playing a central role, regardless of his team's overall success. Only time will tell if he can achieve the impossible.

What do you think? Can Paul Skenes win the Cy Young despite a losing team? Share your predictions in the comments below!