3 Best NL Cy Young Bets to Make for 2024 MLB Season (Back Strider, Yamamoto)

It may not translate to the 70-29 record and 1.82 ERA he had in the NBL, but some think Yamamoto is a top five pitcher in the National League already.

He won't dominate the way Strider will, but 9.3 strikeouts per 9 innings (NBL) is not bad.

Yamamoto is a steal at this number playing in Los Angeles for a team that could win more than 100 games.

Speaking of steals, Justin Steele is coming off a 16-5 season with a 3.06 ERA and finished fifth in the 2023 NL Cy Young Award voting.

Steele quietly put together 20 quality starts for an 83-win team.

Admittedly a longer shot for these awards because of the expected dominance and star power of the Braves and Dodgers in the National League, Steele could find himself in the conversation if the Chicago Cubs contend in the NL Central under Craig Counsel.

Steele faltered down the stretch last season, finishing 1-2 with a 4.91 ERA over his last five starts, which will have to be rectified if he hopes to be considered for this award.

If the other candidates falter through injury or performance, Steele throws quality start after quality start and the Cubs win the NL Central, don't be surprised if he's there in the end.

Odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.