Earlier in the week, Justin Verlander became only the 14th unanimous Cy Young selection in the 56-year history of the award. However, according to some prognosticators, that might just be the appetizer for the Tigers’ right hander.
Unanimous Cy Young Award Winners
Pitcher | Years |
Justin Verlander | 2011 |
Roy Halladay | 2010 |
Jake Peavy | 2007 |
Johan Santana | 2004, 2006 |
Pedro Martinez | 1999, 2000 |
Roger Clemens | 1986, 1998 |
Greg Maddux | 1994, 1995 |
Orel Hershiser | 1988 |
Rick Sutcliffe | 1984 |
Ron Guidry | 1978 |
Steve Carlton | 1972, 1977 |
Denny McLain | 1968 |
Bob Gibson | 1968 |
Sandy Koufax | 1963, 1965, 1966 |
Source: mlb.com
When the A.L. MVP is announced next Monday, many believe Verlander will add to his list of already impressive accomplishments by becoming the seventh starter (and 10th pitcher) to win both the Cy Young and MVP in one season. In addition, if the Tigers’ ace is given his second trophy, he’ll join the Brooklyn Dodgers Don Newcombe as the only player to be named Rookie of the Year, Cy Young, and MVP during his career. Throw in a pair of no hitters, and the list of accomplishments achieved by Verlander has Hall of Fame written all over it.
Although his credentials as an MVP candidate are beyond question, there is an element around the game, and within the BBWAA, that seems to think pitchers should not be eligible for the award. At the very least, a commonly held position is that if a pitcher is going to win the MVP, he must clear an extra hurdle. So, does Verlander’s 2011 campaign meet that higher standard?