The first half of the MLB 2023 season was entirely engaging. While several teams fell short of meeting expectations, others exceeded them. The same goes for the players, who have been under scrutiny for the same reason. And when the fans got on to sharing their thoughts on the best in their divisions, they did not shy away. Gerrit Cole emerged as the winner selected by fans for their votes.
As a result, given his brilliant performances, the Yankees’ ace won the Mid-Season AL Cy Young Award. However, the selection didn’t come easy. Even though many fans justified the results, few had their disagreements.
Gerrit Cole aces to claim a big mid-season win
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
The New York Yankees needed to play better, but Gerrit Cole continued to shine. Amidst the depleting squad and fewer pitching options on the team, Cole shined on the mound. In 19 starts of the season, he recorded nine wins and two losses. He also claimed 123 strikeouts at a WHIP of 1.120 and an ERA of 2.85.
Given his performances, he made it to the All-Star team. And continuing the same, Cole has got another success. It is a big sign for Cole that fans are backing him after initial criticism. It also adds a justification to his nine-year, $324 million contract.
We asked and you voted…
MLB on FOX fans picked Gerrit Cole as the 2023 midseason AL Cy Young 🔥 pic.twitter.com/Fsfzy9btXj
— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) July 13, 2023
As FOX Sports: MLB asked public opinion through their votes, Cole came in front to win the AL Cy Young Award. They shared the news on Twitter. It read,” We asked, and you voted… MLB on FOX fans picked Gerrit Cole as the 2023 mid-season AL Cy Young.”
Though it was an expected result, many fans expressed disapproval of it. Simultaneously, the voices of congratulations and praises garnered on social media.
Fans question Cole’s success with more competition in the fray
Fans left the baseball community divided with Cole’s selection for the mid-season award. Though many were happy with his selection, others have pointed out that there were likes of Framber Valdez, who should have won it.
ACE
— Leo Saperstein (@saperstein21) July 13, 2023
My Ace LFG
— DON YANKEE 🇵🇷🇺🇸 (@DoNSicKaRiO1) July 13, 2023
Best pitcher in the league😤
— Gerrit Cole is the best (@JLu36114233) July 13, 2023
Few variations from the popular opinion.
Framber Valdez?
— TheJonhaha (@JonBaseball_) July 13, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Framber clears
— 🚂 (@MontgomeryToHOU) July 13, 2023
The difference of opinion and choice among fans is very much clear. Though with this win, Cole has claimed the bigger win at the end of the season, he has to be consistent and stay ahead of others.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Will he be able to continue his run, making his criticism vague? How do you see it? Let us know in the comments!
Watch this Story: Yankees ace outshines Ohtani: Pitching legend reigns supreme, Top MLB Hurler Rankings Mid-Season.