The baseball season is almost at an end. With the last few weeks before the postseason arrives, fans are paying closer attention to star players worthy of awards. While the MVPs are in a close race, pitchers are also rounding out the season with as many Ks as they can get. The Cy Young Award is almost within grasp; will it finally be a New York Yankees player’s turn?

The Bronx team has been terrible at producing effective offense in 2023 but the defense has been wonderful. With Domingo German’s perfect game putting the Yankees on the map, Clarke Schmidt also gave quite the performance early on. While Carlos Rodon has been a disappointment, Nestor Cortes Jr. is spending time on the IL. So what better candidate can the AL boast, other than Gerrit Cole? But a Mariners player may give fierce competition just yet.

Gerrit Cole vs. Luis Castillo – A battle of power

The league is not lacking in talent but the Cy Young only goes to the deserving ones. Gerrit Cole leads the AL in both ERA and innings pitched and he’s a huge favorite to win the title this year. It’s mindboggling to think that the 32-year-old has never bagged this award despite his stunning performance year after year. There is somehow always someone better, but 2023 may just be his year.

However, challenging the $324 million Yankees ace for the title is Luis Castillo of the Seattle Mariners, who has drastically improved in 2023. Retired baseballer Mark DeRosa recently did a breakdown of how the ace has adjusted his throws to join the top 10 pitchers in ERA, WHIP, Ks, and IP.

While Cole may be a fan favorite, Castillo is giving him a run for his money, ready to grab his first Cy Young award as well. After all, the starter helped Seattle end its 21-year playoff drought in 2022 and won hearts. While stats favor each pitcher, how will their respective teams affect their odds?

Will the New York Yankees’ unfavorable Playoff odds affect Cole’s chances?

The Bronx Bombers have been dealing with several injuries and slumps at once all season long. It has put them in a tough spot, unable to come out of the rut they created for themselves. The front office also finally made some good decisions, promoting youngsters from their farm system to the majors.

READ MORE – “My Full Commitment”: Yankees’ $324M Ace Shows Gutsy Spirit Amidst CY Young-Worthy Year as Postseason Painfully Slips Away

The era of Baby Bombers is producing some good results late in the season. Many think postseason chances are still slim but it has at least given them a chance.

How does it all affect Gerrit Cole’s Cy Young odds? It’s certain to put off some voters, who’d rather see a winning team. The same problem does not plague the Mariners, who have been consistently near the top of the AL West. Only time will tell who fares better, Castillo or Cole.

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