Should Randy Johnson win the Cy Young?

GreenDoberman · Sep 10, 2004

Stastically speaking, he has by far the best numbers in the NL. His record is basically a byproduct of the horrible team he plays on and their lack of offense.
Because of his record, he is not often mentioned as a Cy Young candidate. A deeper look into the statistics shows he is, however, the best pitcher in the National League this year.
I know an MVP has come from a last place team, but is there a precedent for a pitcher on a last place team or even a pitcher with a losing record winning the Cy Young?

wilheim · Sep 10, 2004

Steve Carlton in 1972:
October 3, 1972: Steve Carlton wins his 27th game for the last-place Phillies, (59-97), as they pound out six home runs in an 11–1 win over Chicago. Carlton's total is the highest by a Phillies pitcher in 20 years. November 2, 1972: Steve Carlton caps off a remarkable season with a unanimous National League Cy Young Award.

wil.

GreenDoberman · Sep 10, 2004

Good research Wil, so what about the record thing? And does anyone else think he's deserving?

Ladeda · Sep 10, 2004

I doubt a pitcher with a losing record ever won the Cy Young.
Way before my time, but Carlton may have won it the year he had like 27 wins for a Phillies team that only won 50-60 games. Anyone know if he won it that year?

Ladeda · Sep 10, 2004

Man you guys are fast!

wilheim · Sep 10, 2004

To be honest I don't see him winning with a losing record. Looking at Pavano and Clemens as front runners.

wil.

GreenDoberman · Sep 10, 2004

I would have a harder time giving it to a Pavano, Clemens, or Oswalt IF their teams don't make the postseason.
Looking at the teams going on in October, only Schmidt stands out as a candidate.
Given the circumstances, it's remarkable the effort RJ puts in every start, only to realize he's going to lose 1-0 or 2-1 most of the time. Lots of others would have packed it in.