Blake Snell just won his second Cy Young award, this time in the National League for 2023.
His season has been a rollercoaster with ups and downs, partly because he started late due to free agency and had a stint on the injured list. Saturday’s game against the Rockies was only his 10th of the year.
But wow, he was amazing! Snell pitched six scoreless innings, giving up only two hits and striking out 15 batters .
Blake Snell’s Performance:
Not only did Snell set a new personal record with those 15 strikeouts, but it’s also the highest strikeout count for any pitcher this season. He almost matched the Giants’ franchise record; Christy Mathewson struck out 16 in 1904 and Jason Schmidt did it again in 2006. The last Giant to get close was Tim Lincecum with 15 strikeouts back in 2009.
Fans might think this is a sign of great things to come.
Snell’s timing couldn’t be better as trade rumors swirl around him. He signed a one-year deal worth $32 million with an option for next season but might decline it to become a free agent again. Teams looking for top-tier pitchers could be very interested after seeing his performance on Saturday. Meanwhile, the Giants are struggling with their current record of 50-55, trailing by 12 games in the NL West.
Since coming back from his groin injury on July 9th, Snell has been on fire! In four starts since then, he’s allowed just two earned runs over 24 innings (0.75 ERA) and struck out 30 batters.
Trade Rumors:
Teams like the Dodgers and Orioles need starting pitchers, though it’s unlikely the Giants would trade Snell to their rivals, the Dodgers. Other teams like the Mets or even a possible reunion with the Padres could be interested in picking him up for the rest of the season and maybe even playoffs.
What do you think about all these trade talks?
