Current 2016 stats: 19 GS, 8-7, 3.35 ERA, 1.27 WHIP, 113 IP, 117 H, 27 BB, 106 K
Projected: 30 GS, 13-11, 3.35 ERA, 1.27 WHIP, 179 IP, 186 H, 43 BB, 168 K
The 25-year-old southpaw undeniably would have had a better chance at the award if he had qualified last year. Nonetheless, his 2016 campaign has been nothing short of stellar.
Despite battling some elbow troubles, leading to a few bumps in the road, he has displayed a veteran-esque ability to mix his pitches and work in favorable counts in the majority of his outings.
Judging from early signs, the Long Island native is destined to be one of the premier left-handers in baseball for years to come. He may not take home a coveted award this year, but he definitely has an award-winning future waiting for him.
