The Braves' ace, Chris Sale, is having a remarkable season, and it's making fans and analysts alike feel like it's 2018 all over again. But is this a sign of things to come, or just a temporary blip? Let's dive into the numbers and explore the fascinating story behind Sale's resurgence.
A Resurgence in the Making
Sale, who turned 37 this year, is having one of the best seasons of his career. With a 2.01 ERA, he's ranked fourth in the Majors and third in the NL. What's more impressive is that he's kept his earned runs to two or fewer in 10 of his first 11 starts. This is a testament to his resilience and the fact that he's still got it at an age when most pitchers are slowing down.
But what's really fascinating is the role that rest has played in Sale's success. With two extra days of rest between starts, he's been able to maintain his form and keep his ERA low. This is a strategy that the Braves have embraced, and it's paying off.
The Power of Rest
In my opinion, the extra rest has been a game-changer for Sale. It's allowed him to maintain his velocity and keep his arm fresh. When he pitched against the Red Sox on May 28, his four-seamer averaged 97 mph, the highest average velo in any game since 2019. This is a clear indication that the extra rest has helped him maintain his power and control.
But what's really interesting is how this compares to Sale's previous seasons. In 2018, he had a 1.97 ERA and 228 strikeouts in 162 innings. This was a career-year for him, and it's interesting to see if he can replicate that success at an older age.
The Braves' Smart Move
The Braves' decision to acquire Sale from the Red Sox was a risky one, given his injury history. But it's clear that they've made a smart move. Sale has won the 2024 NL Cy Young Award and is continuing to get stronger with age. This is a testament to his resilience and the fact that the Braves have a real ace on their hands.
But what's really fascinating is how this compares to other pitchers who have had similar success at an older age. For example, Roger Clemens and Justin Verlander have both had remarkable seasons at 37 and older. This raises the question: is Sale on track to join them in the hall of fame?
The Future is Bright
In my opinion, the future is bright for Sale. With his current form, he's on track to have another strong season and potentially join the ranks of the all-time greats. But it's important to remember that age is a factor, and it's not just about the numbers. Sale's ability to maintain his health and keep his arm fresh will be crucial in the coming years.
One thing that immediately stands out is the role that the Braves' strategy has played in Sale's success. By giving him the extra rest, they've been able to maximize his potential and keep him fresh. This is a smart move that could pay off in the long run.
The Takeaway
In conclusion, Sale's resurgence is a fascinating story that raises a lot of questions. Is he on track to join the hall of fame? Can he replicate his 2018 success at an older age? And what role has the extra rest played in his success? These are questions that we'll have to wait and see, but one thing is clear: Sale is having a remarkable season, and it's making fans and analysts alike feel like it's 2018 all over again.
