After several injury-plagued seasons that cast doubt on his future, Chris Sale has made a remarkable comeback in 2024 with the Atlanta Braves, reestablishing himself as one of the premier pitchers in Major League Baseball. Now 35, Sale is putting together a season for the ages, boasting a 16-3 record with a National League-best 2.46 ERA over 26 starts, marking a dominant return to the top tier of pitching.

With 206 strikeouts over 160.2 innings and a stellar 1.015 WHIP, Sale's resurgence has become one of the biggest storylines of the 2024 season. These numbers not only put him in contention for his first-ever Cy Young Award but have also solidified his place in the Braves’ rotation as they make a strong push for the postseason.

Sale, who had struggled to stay on the field in recent years, made only 31 starts from 2020 to 2023, raising questions about his durability and whether his dominant days were behind him. But 2024 has marked a resurgence for the former ace, as he has returned to the mound with renewed vigor, anchoring the Braves' rotation.

His resurgence has not only helped solidify the Braves' playoff hopes but has also put him back into the conversation for Cy Young contention. Atlanta's trade for Sale, which many initially viewed as a gamble, has proven to be one of the best moves of the season. Braves fans have been treated to Sale's familiar devastating slider and fastball, reminding everyone why he was once considered one of the most feared pitchers in the league.

Sale's 2024 performance marks a high point in a career that has already been filled with accolades, including 8 All-Star appearances, a World Series title with the Boston Red Sox in 2018, and over 2,300 strikeouts in 14 seasons. His career ERA of 3.05 is a testament to his consistent dominance on the mound. Despite his stellar regular-season success, Sale’s postseason performances have been less fruitful, with a 6.35 ERA in 10 playoff games across six different series.

As the postseason approaches, Sale’s remarkable comeback is sure to be a storyline to watch, with Atlanta banking on his arm to guide them deep into October.

Sale has been close to Cy Young recognition before, finishing as high as second in 2017. With his current form, this might finally be his year to capture the elusive award. His command of his fastball-slider combination has been critical, as he ranks among the league leaders in strikeout rate and fewest home runs allowed. If he maintains this pace, Sale could add a Cy Young to his already impressive resume, solidifying his comeback as one of the most compelling in recent MLB history.