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Jacob deGrom is widely regarded as one of the most dominant pitchers in Major League Baseball (MLB) in recent years. His exceptional skill, combined with impressive statistics, has made him a standout player since his debut. This article explores deGrom’s best pitching seasons and what makes them exceptional.
Overview of Jacob deGrom’s Career
Drafted by the New York Mets in 2010, Jacob deGrom quickly established himself as a top-tier pitcher. Known for his fastball velocity and pinpoint control, deGrom has earned multiple awards, including two Cy Young Awards. His career highlights include several seasons with outstanding performance metrics that have set him apart from his peers.
Top Pitching Seasons
2018 Season
The 2018 season marked deGrom’s breakout year. He posted a record of 10 wins and 9 losses but was remarkable in other areas. His ERA was an outstanding 1.70, the best in the league, and he struck out 269 batters over 178.2 innings. His WHIP (walks plus hits per inning pitched) was just 0.91, demonstrating his dominance and control.
2019 Season
In 2019, deGrom continued his stellar performance with a 11-8 record. His ERA improved slightly to 2.43, and he struck out 255 batters in 204 innings. Despite fewer wins, his consistency and strikeout rate made him one of the top pitchers in MLB. He finished second in Cy Young voting that year.
2020 Season
The 2020 season was shortened due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but deGrom’s performance remained elite. He posted a 4-2 record with an ERA of 2.38 in 12 starts. His strikeouts per nine innings remained high at 14.3, and he continued to demonstrate his ability to dominate hitters despite the limited games.
Key Attributes of deGrom’s Success
- Fastball: His fastball often exceeds 100 mph, making it difficult for batters to make contact.
- Control: Exceptional command allows him to place pitches precisely, reducing walks and increasing strikeouts.
- Breaking Pitches: His slider and changeup complement his fastball, adding deception and variety to his arsenal.
- Work Ethic: Consistent training and focus contribute to his durability and peak performance.
Conclusion
Jacob deGrom’s best seasons showcase his dominance on the mound and his ability to adapt and improve. His combination of velocity, control, and strategic pitching has made him one of the premier pitchers in MLB history. As he continues his career, fans and analysts eagerly anticipate more exceptional performances.