The Braves' ace pitcher, Chris Sale, is having a remarkable season, and it's making fans feel nostalgic for 2018. Sale, who turned 37 in May, is proving that age is just a number. With a 2.01 ERA, he's ranked fourth in the Majors and third in the NL, showcasing his enduring talent. Sale's recent performance against the Red Sox is a testament to his resilience and skill. On May 28, he dominated for five innings, allowing just two runs, with his four-seamer averaging a blistering 97 mph. This was the highest average velocity for that pitch since 2019, indicating that Sale is still a force to be reckoned with.
What's even more impressive is that Sale is doing this at an age where many pitchers are considering retirement. He's joined an elite group of veteran pitchers who have maintained an ERA below 2.00 through the first 12 starts of a season since 2000. This includes legends like Roger Clemens, Justin Verlander, Tim Hudson, and Kenny Rogers. Sale's ability to stay healthy and perform at a high level is a testament to his dedication and the benefits of extended rest between starts, which he will again experience before his next game.
The Braves made a bold move by acquiring Sale from the Red Sox before the 2024 season, despite his injury history. But the risk has paid off. Sale has not only won the 2024 NL Cy Young Award but has also shown that he can get stronger with age. His performance this season is a reminder that experience and rest can be powerful tools in baseball, and it's making fans wonder if the Braves are building a dynasty.
As Sale continues to dominate the mound, it's clear that his success is not just a fluke. With each start, he's proving that he's still one of the best pitchers in the game, and his impact on the Braves' success cannot be overstated. The team's decision to acquire him has been a masterstroke, and fans are eagerly anticipating more of Sale's masterful performances.
