While Chris Sale is emerging as a frontrunner for the National League Cy Young Award, the competition for the top rookie in the league is heating up. MLB analyst John Smoltz discusses whether 21-year-old Jackson Merrill has done enough to overtake Paul Skenes as the Rookie of the Year favorite. In the past, Smoltz notes, comparing rookie pitchers and position players was a straightforward process, but now the landscape is changing. This is especially true when considering the potential for MLB players to participate in the 2028 Olympics, a complex decision due to the long baseball season.
Smoltz believes that Merrill may have just done enough to edge out Skenes for the top rookie award. Citing the possible exit of Skenes and his team, the Pittsburgh Pirates, from the playoff race, he suggests this could negatively impact voting. Conversely, what Merrill and his team the San Diego Padres have accomplished may close the gap or even see Merrill take the lead as an everyday impact player.
When considering a positional player against an ace for the award, Smoltz gives the edge to the former. His argument is that these players are having a more significant impact on the progression of the season. This isn’t to discount the achievements of a successful pitcher like Skenes, but simply emphasizes the importance of the influence players who are on the field every day can have on a team’s performance.
In addition to the Rookie of the Year race, Smoltz comments on Chris Sale’s dominating performances for the Braves this year, suggesting he is the clear front runner for the Cy Young award. He may even receive votes for MVP (Most Valuable Player). Despite the challenges the Atlanta Braves have faced, Sale’s contributions have been crucial.
Regarding teams, Smoltz believes the LA Dodgers have the highest ceiling in the National League due to their resources and upcoming return of key starters. In comparison, he sees the Philadelphia Phillies’ route to a World Series run as dependent on learning from past experiences. Acknowledging the Milwaukee Brewers as a persistent threat, he also notes that the Braves appear to be on an upward trajectory.
John Smoltz, an eight-time All-Star and National League Cy Young Award winner, is renowned for his insightful MLB analysis. Rowan Kavner, a writer for Fox Sports, previously covered the LA Dodgers, LA Clippers, and Dallas Cowboys, contributing a valuable perspective to discussions on MLB developments.
