Why is Nobody Talking About Bossier’s Seth Lugo?
If you've followed anything I've written over the last couple years, you know I'm a huge Seth Lugo guy. And, yes, I am partially biased since he's a local guy - went to Parkway High School and Centenary College and all that. But, beyond the local bias, he's been absolutely dominant this year. I don't think I can name 2 or 3 pitchers who have been more dominant in the world of baseball.
However, as good as Seth Lugo has been, there's not a lot of National Media guys talking about him. And that just doesn't make sense to me. I don't know if he will or should win the Cy Young...but he for sure should be part of the conversation.
Why Is Seth Lugo Being 'Ignored'?
If you listen to the national conversation about the best pitchers in baseball, Seth Lugo's name rarely, if ever, comes up. Like I said, I know I'm biased. I also know that he's not the only pitcher having a really good season.
But, should the American League Cy Young race really be a two way conversation between Corbin Burnes & Tarik Skubal? I think not.
Here's Seth Lugo's stat line as of today (08/05/24):
- Tied for the lead in Wins at 13 (13-5 on the season)
- He's leading the league in ERA with a 2.57 ERA
- He's leading the league in innings pitched with 150.1
Looking at that, that's pretty darn good. But let's take a look at the two guys who are perceived to be leading the AL Cy Young race.
Corbin Burnes is not leading the league in any statistical category.
Tarik Skubal is tied for the American League Strike Out Lead with 162. He's also having a solid year with a 12-4 record and 2.57 ERA
Again, both guys are having fantastic season. Corbin Burnes won a Cy Young in the National League, so he probably has earned a little extra love and respect. But, are those two the end of the conversation, I think not.
Is Seth Lugo a Dark Horse to Win?
He kind of has to be, right? I mean when you're leading or are tied for a couple of the Pitching Triple Crown categories, you have to get some recognition. Now, will he will? That I'm not sure with. Both Corbin Burnes & Tarik Skubal were preseason favorites and have delivered on their hype. Seth on the other hand, has sort of shocked the world with his performance - only his second year as a full time starter.
But, just because he hasn't been a large part of the conversation yet, doesn't mean he won't be. The stats speak for themselves. If he keeps up what he's been doing all season, he's going to be undeniable. I don't think Rick Porcello & Dallas Keuchel were exactly favorites back in 2015 or 2016.
Stranger things have happened. And again, if he keeps dominating, he's definitely going to earn a spot in the top 3 at the end of the year.
The Best Professional Baseball Players From Louisiana
Gallery Credit: Gary McCoy