Team Cy Young – Mike Leake
Jun 5, 2014; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cincinnati Reds starting pitcher Mike Leake throws against the San Francisco Giants during the second inning at Great American Ball Park. Mandatory Credit: David Kohl-USA TODAY Sports
The Cincinnati rotation is due to take a big step back considering that
- Johnny Cuetohad a career year and threw more innings, with more strikeouts than ever before.
- Mat Latos is gone.
- Alfredo Simon is gone.
- Raisel Iglesias has never thrown a pitch in the US major or minor leagues.
- Cueto could be dealt out of town by August.
That leavesMike Leakeas the staple of the staff, and he is also the most likely to have the best season. Cueto has had trouble stringing together consecutive healthy seasons, and last years’ workload could take a big toll.
Leake, on the other hand, has gradually increased his number of starts from 26 to 30 to 31 to 33. He is smack dab in the middle of his prime, too, at age 27, and it would not be surprising to see him turn in his best season.
If Leake can put up 15-18 wins with an ERA below 3.50, all attainable goals, he’ll be the Reds’ Cy Young winner.
Next: With Johnny Cueto at Home, Cincinnati Reds Might Have to Juggle Rotation
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