Starting Pitcher Power Rankings: Skubal Rises to the Top
It’s no surprise that Tarik Skubal has reclaimed the number one spot in the Starting Pitcher Power Rankings. The shock lies in the fact that he wasn’t already dominating the list.
This reflects the impressive performance of other standout pitchers in the league. For instance, breakout star Hunter Brown of the Astros seized the top position in our previous rankings. However, the reigning American League Cy Young Award and Triple Crown winner has fought his way back to lead the list of elite pitchers.
The rankings rely on a formula developed by MLB.com’s data team, which evaluates performance over the past year while prioritizing recent and seasonal performances.
As of now, Skubal is a force to be reckoned with on the mound. He recently delivered a remarkable shutout with 13 strikeouts in less than 100 pitches—a “Maddux.” Notably, he secured the fastest recorded strikeout pitch (102.6 mph) since pitch tracking began in 2008. With a season ERA of 2.26 and 99 strikeouts in 75 and two-thirds innings, Skubal is on the path to a second consecutive Cy Young Award and sits firmly at the top of the rankings.
Wheeler recently faced a tough outing against the Braves but had recorded three consecutive scoreless starts prior. Overall, the Phillies ace maintains a solid 2.96 ERA with 94 strikeouts in 76 innings as he continues his quest for his first Cy Young Award.
Skenes is gaining momentum akin to his rookie season in 2024, not allowing more than one run in his last five starts. His current ERA stands at 1.04 with 38 strikeouts across 34 and two-thirds innings, putting his season ERA at a commendable 2.05, ranking second in the NL for innings pitched.
Honorable mentions include Jacob deGrom (Rangers), MacKenzie Gore (Nationals), Drew Rasmussen (Rays), Robbie Ray (Giants), Chris Sale (Braves), Kodai Senga (Mets), Logan Webb (Giants), and Bryan Woo (Mariners).