Cy Young Favorites Nearly Locked In as Playoffs Approach
Cam Schlittler and Jacob Misiorowski are overwhelming betting favorites for the AL and NL Cy Young awards. Schlittler leads the American League with a 1.95 ERA and 228 strikeouts, while Misiorowski tops the majors with a 1.89 ERA and 243 strikeouts. Both races appear effectively decided with the postseason imminent.
The American League race shifted dramatically when Detroit's Tarik Skubal, seeking a third consecutive Cy Young, underwent elbow surgery and was dealt to the Dodgers. That opened the door for New York's Cam Schlittler, whose 14 wins and AL-best 1.95 ERA have made him a near-certainty at -50000 odds. Dylan Cease trails at +3300.
In the National League, Milwaukee's Jacob Misiorowski has been even more dominant, posting a 1.89 ERA and 243 strikeouts — both major-league bests — while helping the Brewers capture a fourth straight NL Central title. Chris Sale's +2700 odds reflect how thoroughly Misiorowski has separated himself from the field.
The near-certainty of these Cy Young races may shape how fans engage with the postseason, as attention shifts from individual awards to team outcomes. Betting markets with extreme odds offer little value, which could push casual bettors toward other wagers. The dominance of young pitchers like Schlittler and Misiorowski may also influence how teams evaluate pitching development, though such effects remain speculative.