Chris Sale and Garrett Crochet have been named the Comeback Players of the Year by ESPN. Left-handers Chris Sale of the Atlanta Braves and Garrett Crochet of the Chicago White Sox have been recognized for their outstanding performances in the 2024 Major League Baseball season.
Chris Sale, aged 35, had an impressive season with the Atlanta Braves, recording an 18-3 win-loss record with a 2.38 ERA and 225 strikeouts in 177⅔ innings. Sale’s stellar performance earned him the NL’s first pitching triple crown since Clayton Kershaw in 2011. Despite facing challenges in previous seasons due to injuries, Sale made a remarkable comeback this year, showcasing his talent and dedication to the sport.
On the other hand, Garrett Crochet, aged 25, demonstrated his resilience and skill with the Chicago White Sox. Crochet posted a 6-12 record with a 3.58 ERA over 32 starts, striking out 209 batters and walking 33 in 146 innings. His outstanding performance contributed significantly to the White Sox team, despite their challenging season.
Both Sale and Crochet were selected for the Comeback Player of the Year awards through a voting process conducted by MLB.com beat writers. Their remarkable comeback stories serve as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and highlight the importance of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity.
In addition to Sale and Crochet’s achievements, Cleveland right-hander Emmanuel Clase received his second AL Reliever of the Year award, while St. Louis righty Ryan Helsley earned the NL honor. Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani made history by becoming the first player with 50 or more home runs and 50 or more stolen bases in a season, solidifying his position as one of the best players in the league.
Furthermore, the All-MLB Awards Show recognized outstanding players such as David Ortiz, who won the Outstanding Designated Hitter award for the fourth consecutive year, alongside Shohei Ohtani. Aaron Judge from the New York Yankees was honored with the Hank Aaron Award for his exceptional offensive performance during the season.
The accolades received by these players not only celebrate their individual achievements but also reflect the competitive spirit and talent present in Major League Baseball. As fans and enthusiasts of the sport, we look forward to witnessing more remarkable performances and inspiring comebacks in the seasons to come.
